Nebraska Lawmakers Take Step Forward in Implementing Medical Cannabis Program
In a significant move, the Nebraska Legislature has approved a bill that will enable the state’s medical cannabis program to move forward. The bill, known as Legislative Bill 1235, was passed with a vote of 46-2 and will give the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission the authority to set fees and raise revenue. This development is seen as crucial in getting the program up and running, as it will allow the commission to hire its first dedicated staff.
The commission, which was created after a ballot measure was passed by 67% of voters in 2024, did not formally support or oppose the bill. However, lawmakers made it clear that the measure was introduced on behalf of the commission.
The original bill would have expanded the commission’s authority to regulate patients, caregivers, and medical providers, but this provision was removed. The legislation will still enable patients and caregivers to possess up to 5 ounces of medical cannabis with a healthcare practitioner’s recommendation, as approved by 71% of voters in the 2024 election.
With this bill now approved, the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission is one step closer to becoming fully operational and providing medical cannabis to those who need it.
