Nebraska’s “Will of the People”: A Long-Fought Battle for Medical Cannabis
In a historic move, Nebraska voters overwhelmingly approved two ballot initiatives to legalize medical cannabis in 2024. The initiatives, which garnered 67% and 71% of the vote, respectively, legalized the possession of up to five ounces of medical cannabis and established the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission to regulate the industry.
The journey to legalization was not without its challenges. Prior efforts to pass medical cannabis legislation had been met with failure for over a decade. However, in 2024, two ballot initiatives were introduced by Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, a grassroots organization dedicated to the cause. Despite facing legal challenges from cannabis opponents, including the Attorney General and Secretary of State, the initiatives ultimately prevailed.
The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission was tasked with developing regulations for the industry, but its progress was hindered by the sudden resignations of its members. The commission’s director was federally indicted, and the remaining members resigned, allowing Governor Jim Pillen to appoint new members. The governor has since stated his support for medical cannabis, but his appointments have raised concerns among advocates.
The commission has developed emergency regulations, which allow for 12 dispensaries and four cultivators statewide. However, the regulations are not permanent, and the commission’s ability to implement the program has been hindered by funding issues and the possibility of further legal challenges.
Despite the challenges, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana remains committed to the cause. The organization’s founder, Crista Eggers, expressed frustration at the lack of progress, saying, “Some of our highest elected officials in this state have spent time and money in fighting what 71% of people passed.”
An interim study hearing is scheduled for Friday to address the implementation of the ballot initiatives. As the state continues to navigate the complex process of establishing a medical cannabis program, advocates remain hopeful that the will of the people will ultimately prevail.
