Bill > HB519

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to legalize recreational cannabis in Hawaii for individuals who are at least 21 years old. The bill highlights that 24 states have already legalized recreational cannabis, with 15 passing it through ballot initiatives, and acknowledges that the issue is contentious. If approved, the amendment would add a new section to Article IX of the Hawaii State Constitution, explicitly stating that individuals 21 and older may possess and use cannabis, while also granting the state legislature the power to regulate, distribute, tax, and otherwise manage cannabis use within the state. The proposed ballot question will directly ask voters whether they support amending the state constitution to allow cannabis possession and use for adults and authorize legislative regulation. The amendment would take effect after meeting the constitutional requirements for approval, specifically those outlined in Article XVII, Section 3 of the Hawaii State Constitution. The bill reflects a democratic approach by allowing voters to directly decide on this significant policy change.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=519&year=2026