Bill > HB1246

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework for cannabis regulation in Hawaii, creating the Hawaii Cannabis Law and the Hawaii Cannabis and Hemp Office to oversee all aspects of cannabis cultivation, processing, and sale. The bill legalizes personal adult use of cannabis beginning January 1, 2026, for individuals 21 and older, allowing possession of up to one ounce of cannabis flower and five grams of cannabis products, and permitting individuals to cultivate up to six cannabis plants at home. The legislation also maintains a medical cannabis program, establishes a 14% tax on adult-use cannabis and a 4% tax on medical cannabis, and creates several grant programs focused on social equity, public health, public safety, and hemp industry development. The bill includes provisions for licensing cannabis businesses, implementing strict testing and packaging standards, and creating a regulatory framework that prioritizes public health and safety. Additionally, the legislation addresses criminal justice aspects by decriminalizing certain marijuana-related offenses, creating expungement pathways for prior cannabis convictions, and establishing new traffic-related offenses concerning cannabis consumption and driving. The bill transfers regulatory functions from the Department of Health to the new Hawaii Cannabis and Hemp Office and includes appropriations for implementing the new cannabis regulatory system across multiple state agencies.

Business and Industry, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1246&year=2026