Minnesota is in the process of potentially legalizing cannabis and following in the footsteps of Missouri. While the state already has a small medical marijuana program, bills in the House and Senate suggest that Minnesota may soon expand its program to include recreational adult-use cannabis.
In order for cannabis legalization to become a reality in Minnesota, negotiators from the House and Senate must work out the differences between the two marijuana legalization bills.
Both bills have similarities, such as allowing Minnesotans aged 21 and older to purchase cannabis from licensed retailers, grow their own plants, and possess a certain amount for personal use. Additionally, both bills aim to expunge non-violent marijuana offenses from criminal records.
However, there are also key differences between the two bills. These differences include how cannabis will be taxed, the penalties for illicit unregulated sales, and the qualifications for social equity applicants.
During the legislative process, various individuals and groups have voiced their support for cannabis legalization in Minnesota. City councilmen, citizens, and even former Governor Jesse Ventura, a cannabis advocate, have provided passionate testimonies. They have highlighted several reasons why cannabis should not remain illegal, including the documented evidence of its medical benefits, the ineffectiveness of prohibition in reducing crime rates, and the failure to curtail the illicit market.
If you’re interested in hearing more from Jesse Ventura on the topic of cannabis legalization, you can read our original interview and article featuring him on the cover of Edibles Magazine Issue No. 37 by clicking here.
