SB1613 - Legalization of Recreational Marijuana
Hawaii Senate Bill 1613 (SB1613) proposes legalizing recreational marijuana for adults starting January 1, 2026, creating the Hawaii Cannabis and Hemp Office to regulate cannabis, imposing taxes on sales, and decriminalizing certain marijuana-related offenses. It also introduces new traffic laws for marijuana use and transfers cannabis oversight from the Departments of Health and Agriculture to the new office.
As of January 27, 2025, SB1613 has been referred to the Senate committees on Health and Human Services (HHS), Judiciary (JDC), Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN), and Ways and Means (WAM) for further consideration.
A companion bill, House Bill 1246 (HB1246), has been introduced in the House of Representatives, sharing similar objectives and provisions.
For the most current status and detailed information on SB1613, you can visit the Hawaii State Legislature's official website.
[2.21.25] Keep Hawai'i Free of Marijuana – Take Action Now!
Feb 21
SB1613 SD1 (Relating to Cannabis) is up for debate next week—your voice is needed!
Aloha,
Despite ongoing concerns, lawmakers are pushing for this bill, arguing that it will boost economic development, generate tax revenue, and reduce crime. However, the risks far outweigh the benefits, and we must stand against it to protect our communities, families, and future generations.
🔴 HEARING DETAILS:
📅 Wednesday, February 26, 2025
⏰ 10:00 A.M.
📍 Room 211 – Senate Committee on Ways and Means & Senate Committee on Commerce & Consumer Protection
🚨 NO ORAL TESTIMONY ALLOWED – WRITTEN TESTIMONY ONLY!
✅ Submit your testimony by Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 10:00 A.M.
👉 [Click here to submit testimony]
How You Can Take Action:
1️⃣ PRAY – Ask that our legislators prioritize public health and safety over potential tax revenue. We need them to make decisions with caution, not just financial gain.
2️⃣ EMAIL YOUR SENATOR – [Click here to send a message] urging them to vote NO on SB1613 SD1.
3️⃣ CONTACT KEY LEGISLATORS – Politely urge the members of the Senate Committees to VOTE NO on SB1613 SD1.
4️⃣ SUBMIT TESTIMONY – Even a simple statement of opposition makes a difference! However, personal reasons and concerns are the most impactful—let them know why you oppose this bill.
5️⃣ SPREAD THE WORD – Encourage your friends, family, and community members to take action today!
For additional talking points, [click here], or check out Smart Approaches to Marijuana for more resources.
🚫 The time to act is NOW. Let’s keep Hawai'i free of recreational marijuana!