Legislative Update – May 26, 2023
Dear neighbors,
Our 2023 legislative session came to an end on Monday, but our work is not over. Throughout the legislative interim, I will continue to update you as new laws begin to take effect and to highlight important provisions we passed this year.
Office of Cannabis Management
Ever since the House passed HF 100, our bill to legalize adult-use cannabis, I have been receiving a lot of questions about how the legalization process will unfold in the coming months. The Star Tribune published an article answering many common questions about the bill.
Our legislation creates an Office of Cannabis Management to oversee the legal market and other aspects related to legalization. Here are some key dates:
- August 1, 2023: Minnesotans are allowed to possess and use certain amounts of cannabis and cannabis products. People age 21 and older can grow up to eight cannabis plants, with no more than four being mature. A cultivation license will be required to grow more plants. The plants must be grown in an enclosed, locked space that is not open to public view. People 21 and older can possess up to 2 pounds of cannabis flower in their home.
- October 1, 2023: Lower-potency hemp businesses currently in operation will need to register with the Minnesota Department of Health and eventually get licensed under the Office of Cannabis Management.
- First Quarter of 2025: The legislation proposes that retail sales for adult use cannabis in Minnesota begin in the first quarter of 2025.
- March 1, 2025: Regulation of lower-potency hemp edibles and the Medical Cannabis Program products will move to the Office of Cannabis Management. Prior to that date hemp edibles will continue to be sold and the Medical Cannabis Program will continue to operate through the Department of Health.
You can find more information on a list of topics, including information for consumers, medical cannabis patients, businesses, and more here: https://cannabis.state.mn.us/
Environment Bill Signed by Governor!
On Wednesday, Governor Walz signed our 2023 Environment, Natural Resources, Climate, and Energy budget into law! This bill includes the largest investments into our environment in state history, and I was proud to be the lead author of this legislation which will protect our land, air, water, and wildlife now and into the future.
Stay in Touch
Please continue to share your questions, ideas, and feedback throughout the legislative session. You can reach me by email at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn.gov or by phone at 651-296-6828. You can contact my legislative assistant Sam O'Neill at 651-296-3305 or via email at samuel.oneill@house.mn.gov.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative