Minnesota has taken a significant step by legalizing recreational cannabis for adults, marking the state as the 23rd in the U.S. to enact such legislation. As of August 1, 2023, adults 21 and over in Minnesota can legally possess and use marijuana. Rep. Zack Stephenson and Sen. Lindsey Port sponsored the groundbreaking legislation, identified as HF100*/SF73/CH63, which also sets up a regulatory framework.
The new law permits adults to use, possess, or transport up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower in public and permits the possession of up to 2 pounds at home. Additionally, adults can also possess 8 grams of concentrate and 800 milligrams of edibles. However, it’s important to note that cannabis remains illegal on federal property, and retail sales for adult-use cannabis are slated to start in the first quarter of 2025.
Medical marijuana was previously legalized in Minnesota in 2014. With the introduction of this new law, concerns were raised regarding the impact on the medical marijuana market. Legislators have included provisions to ensure that medical marijuana businesses remain viable even as the recreational market expands.
The law also makes provisions for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis convictions, acknowledging the past impacts of cannabis prohibition. Moreover, there are also grants included in the bill to support cannabis growers, indicating a commitment to developing the industry responsibly and equitably.
For more detailed information on how the new laws impact edible cannabinoid products and other specifics, you can visit the Minnesota House Public Information Services and the State of Minnesota – Office of Cannabis Management websites. You can also subscribe for updates and read the full cannabis bill on the Minnesota House website.
Minnesota House Public Information Services
State of Minnesota – Office of Cannabis Management
Minnesota Issues Resources Guides
Minnesota Issues Resources Guides – Cannabis
2023 Legislative Session DOC Impact Brief
Minnesota House of House Lawmakers
