Minnesota has joined the growing list of states legalizing recreational cannabis use for adults. As of August 1, 2023, the new law, championed by Rep. Zack Stephenson (DFL-Coon Rapids) and Sen. Lindsey Port (DFL-Burnsville), makes it legal for individuals 21 and older to possess and use certain amounts of marijuana and cannabis products. This landmark decision, encapsulated in HF100*/SF73/CH63, marks Minnesota as the 23rd state to enact such legislation.
Under this new legal framework, adults in Minnesota can use, possess, or transport cannabis paraphernalia, and hold up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower in public. Additionally, up to 2 pounds of marijuana can be kept at home. The law further specifies limits for concentrate and edible cannabis products, with individuals allowed to possess 8 grams of concentrate and 800 milligrams of edibles.
Retail sales for adult-use cannabis are set to begin in the first quarter of 2025. It’s important to note that while Minnesota has legalized recreational marijuana, cannabis remains illegal on federal property.
The legislation also considers the impact on medical marijuana, which became legal in the state in 2014. Provisions have been made to protect this sector from potential market changes due to the introduction of recreational cannabis. The Minnesota Department of Health provides additional information regarding the new law’s effect on edible cannabinoid products.
The legalization includes measures for expungement or resentencing of cannabis convictions, reflecting a shift towards more progressive cannabis policies. Governor Tim Walz’s signing of the bill underscores the state’s commitment to reforming its approach to cannabis.
Minnesota House Public Information Services, the State of Minnesota – Office of Cannabis Management, and the Office of Cannabis Management provide further details about the legislation and its implications for adult consumers in Minnesota.
