Nebraska Cannabis Program Updates

Nebraska Cannabis Program Updates

Sabrina
NOVEMBER 8TH, 2024

Nebraska Cannabis Program Updates
Voters in Nebraska opted to legalize medical cannabis in the state during the November 2024 election. Rules will still need to be promulgated before licensing can begin. The state has until July 2025 to finalize regulations and must award licenses by October 2025.

Nebraska cannabis laws and background
Nebraska has no laws that make the medical or recreational use of cannabis legal. Although cannabis possession was illegal in Nebraska, the state decriminalized first offenses for possession of small amounts back in 1979.

In 2015, advocates tried to pass the Cannabis Compassion and Care Act, which would have allowed for the medical use of cannabis in liquid or pill form. The proposed legislation excluded any smokable cannabis. While the initiative passed, it was later blocked by a Senate filibuster.

Nebraska cannabis advocates tried to pass medical marijuana legislation again in 2020. However, the Nebraska Medical Marijuana Initiative never made it to the ballot. A 2022 initiative failed as well, with cannabis never making it on the final ballot.

Two years later, Nebraskan advocates once again pushed to get cannabis legislation on the ballot for 2024, and succeeded. However, political opposition was strong too, with Governor Jim Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers making their stance against legalization clear.

Two ballot petitions
The most recent attempt to get cannabis on the Nebraska ballot was struck down because the previous initiative dealt with two subjects: legalization and the creation of a system to cultivate, sell, and distribute. This violated the state’s single-subject rule.

This time around, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana launched two separate petitions—one for the patient protection act, and one for the medical cannabis regulation act. Enough Nebraska voters approved the measures, and they will become law once certified.

Next steps for Nebraska cannabis
The push to legalize medical cannabis in Nebraska is not over. While campaigners collected the necessary number of signatures, a court case is pending that may invalidate them. A judge is due to make a decision on the case this month.

 

Are you interested in obtaining a cannabis business license in Nebraska? Call us to speak with an industry expert at 602-290-9424.

Need help developing an effective business plan? Shop our templates today!

 

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