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Medical — LegalNorth America

Hawaii

Hawaii was one of the first states to legalize medical cannabis when Governor Ben Cayetano signed Act 228 in June 2000, making it the first state to legalize through the legislative process rather than a ballot initiative. The program is administered by the Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation within the Department of Health. Hawaii permits eight licensed dispensary locations—two per county (Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai). The dispensary program generates approximately $5.3 million in monthly sales, capturing 86–87% of cannabis spending by registered patients. Qualifying patients may possess up to four ounces and cultivate up to 10 plants for personal use. Governor Josh Green signed HB 302 expanding physician authority to certify patients for any debilitating condition. Adult-use legislation has been introduced repeatedly but has not passed as of 2026.

Ask the Expert about Hawaii
Regulator
Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation, Hawaii Department of Health
Key Legislation
Haw. Rev. Stat. §329
Year Legalized
2000
Program Size
~33,000 patients (est.)

Key Facts

  • First state to legalize medical cannabis through the legislature rather than ballot initiative (2000)
  • Eight licensed dispensary locations, two per county, across the Hawaiian Islands
  • Patients may cultivate up to 10 plants and possess up to 4 ounces for personal use
  • Monthly dispensary sales of approximately $5.3 million, capturing 86–87% of patient spending
  • HB 302 expanded physician authority to certify any debilitating condition

Key Legislation

Haw. Rev. Stat. §329 (Act 228 of 2000); Haw. Rev. Stat. §329D (Dispensary program)

Regulatory Body

Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation, Hawaii Department of Health

Country Info
ISO Code
US
Region
North America
Tier
Tier 2 — Emerging
Status
Medical — Legal
Sources
Hawaii Office of Medical Cannabis Control and RegulationHawaii Medical Cannabis Registry ProgramHawaii Revised Statutes §329D
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.