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Long joint hearing exposes deep split over multiple cannabis bills, from low‑dose hemp rules to an adult‑use framework
Summary
A lengthy joint hearing drew dozens of supporters and opponents on multiple cannabis bills, with health, law‑enforcement and education groups warning of youth and public‑safety risks and industry and civil‑liberties advocates urging regulated access and economic opportunity.
A joint session of the Hawaii State Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection and Health committees on Feb. 17 hosted extended testimony on a suite of cannabis bills, producing sharp divisions among public‑health officials, law‑enforcement, educators, industry and civil‑liberties advocates.
Deputy Attorney General Alana Bryant and Department of Health representatives told lawmakers the bills should align with shifting federal law and include strong public‑health safeguards. Bryant recommended that any adult‑use legalization tied to federal triggers not take effect until 18 months after a trigger to allow preparations by law enforcement and the public. Andrew Goff of the Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation repeatedly emphasized technical…
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