Hawaii’s newest efforts to legalize leisure hashish are gaining momentum within the state legislature.

Home Invoice 1246 (HB 1246), championed by Consultant David Tarnas, proposes legalizing private hashish use for adults 21 and over beginning in 2026 whereas additionally establishing a complete regulatory framework beneath the Division of Commerce and Client Affairs.

The invoice additionally proposes the creation of a brand new state company, the Hawaii Hashish and Hemp Workplace, to supervise each medical and leisure hashish, in addition to hemp merchandise. It will additionally impose a tax on hashish gross sales, as seen all through the US.

On Tuesday, the measure cleared two key committees: the Home Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee, chaired by Tarnas, and the Home Agriculture and Meals Methods Committee. Nonetheless, it nonetheless faces hurdles within the Home Finance Committee, the place previous cannabis-related payments have stalled.

A serious part of the invoice is making certain regulatory oversight, significantly in taxation, licensing, public well being training, and legislation enforcement. Comparable dual-system hashish applications have been efficiently carried out in states like Massachusetts, which Tarnas cited as an affect in crafting HB 1246.

Debate across the subject continues to be heated. Supporters argue that legalization would generate jobs, enhance state income, and align Hawaii with shifting nationwide insurance policies. Opponents, together with Honolulu Prosecuting Legal professional Steve Alm, warning that legalization might result in elevated substance abuse, well being dangers, and impaired driving.

HB 1246’s subsequent hurdle is a listening to within the Home Client Safety and Commerce Committee. With monetary allocations nonetheless undefined, lawmakers should tackle key budgetary considerations earlier than the invoice can advance additional.