Minnesota Legalizes Recreational Cannabis, Becoming 23rd State to Do So
Minnesota legalizes recreational cannabis, becoming the 23rd state to do so, with new laws effective August 1 allowing adult possession and expunging past convictions
Key Points
- 1Minnesota legalizes recreational cannabis, effective August 1
- 2Governor Tim Walz emphasizes the end of prohibition and record expungement
- 3Residents can possess up to two ounces publicly and two pounds at home
- 4A Cannabis Management Office will regulate sales within 12-18 months
- 5Home cultivation of cannabis becomes legal in Minnesota
Minnesota has officially joined the ranks of states legalizing recreational cannabis, as Governor Tim Walz signed the landmark legislation into law. This move makes Minnesota the 23rd state in the U.S. to legalize adult-use cannabis, following in the footsteps of Michigan and Missouri in the Midwest. The legislation is set to take effect on August 1, allowing residents over the age of 21 to possess and consume cannabis legally
Governor Walz emphasized the significant journey leading to this legalization, highlighting the failures of prohibition and the potential for criminal record expungement for those previously convicted of minor cannabis offenses. "We have learned a lot from other states, and this legislation reflects those lessons," Walz stated, underscoring the thoughtful approach Minnesota has taken in crafting its cannabis policies
Under the new law, Minnesota residents will be allowed to possess up to two ounces of cannabis in public and up to two pounds at home. The legislation also introduces a process for expunging criminal records related to cannabis possession, with a new commission established to oversee eligibility for more serious offenses. This initiative aims to rectify past legal injustices and offer a fresh start to many affected individuals
The state is setting up a Cannabis Management Office to regulate and oversee the commercial sale of cannabis products, with a timeline of 12 to 18 months to establish a licensed sales system. This framework is expected to create a well-regulated market, prioritizing consumer safety and public health. Additionally, home cultivation of cannabis will be permitted starting August 1, further expanding personal freedoms related to cannabis use
Zack Stephenson, the Democratic state representative and author of the bill, expressed pride in the legislation, which he believes will establish a safe and regulated cannabis market. He highlighted the importance of the expungement program, which aims to address the disproportionate impact of past cannabis laws on certain communities. As Minnesota embarks on this new chapter, the state is poised to become a model for cannabis regulation in the Midwest