On May 16, 2021, Minnesota became the 15th state to legalize recreational cannabis. The bill, which was passed by the state legislature, will allow adults 21 and over to possess, use, and purchase cannabis from licensed retailers.
The bill also includes provisions for the regulation and taxation of cannabis, as well as the expungement of prior cannabis convictions. The new law will create a regulated market for cannabis, with the state’s Department of Health overseeing the licensing and regulation of cannabis businesses. The bill also includes provisions for the taxation of cannabis, with the revenue generated from taxes going toward public health and safety initiatives. The bill also includes provisions for the expungement of prior cannabis convictions. This will allow those with prior convictions to have their records cleared, allowing them to move forward with their lives without the stigma of a criminal record.
Overall, the passage of this bill is a major step forward for cannabis reform in Minnesota. It will create a regulated market for cannabis, generate revenue for public health and safety initiatives, and provide relief to those with prior cannabis convictions.