Nebraska Governor’s Picks for Medical Marijuana Commission Approved
The Nebraska Legislature has approved Governor Jim Pillen’s nominations for the state’s new Medical Marijuana Commission. The commission will be responsible for creating rules and regulations for medical cannabis in the state, following the passage of two measures on the issue in November.
Dr. Monica Oldenburg and Lorelle Mueting were confirmed by the legislature, with Oldenburg receiving a 34-11-1 vote and Mueting receiving a 27-16-1 vote. The two women appeared before the General Affairs Committee last week, where they faced questions from lawmakers about their qualifications and views on medical marijuana.
Oldenburg, a physician, expressed her support for medical cannabis, stating that it can be a helpful treatment option for certain conditions. Mueting, a lawyer, emphasized her commitment to ensuring that the commission’s work is guided by the will of the voters, who overwhelmingly supported medical cannabis in the November election.
Despite the approval of the commission’s members, some advocates for medical marijuana expressed disappointment and frustration with the process. Crista Eggers, executive director of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, criticized the legislature for not providing clear guidance on the regulation of medical cannabis and for appointing commission members who may slow-roll access to the treatment.
The commission will be responsible for creating rules and regulations for medical cannabis in Nebraska, and will work with the state’s Liquor Control Commission to implement the new law. The commission’s work is expected to begin immediately, with a deadline for completing its work set by the legislature.
