Nebraska Medical Marijuana Bill Gains Momentum with Compromise
As the Nebraska legislative session enters its final stretch, a bill to implement and regulate medical marijuana is gaining new life. State Senator Ben Hansen, the sponsor of LB 677, believes he has struck a compromise with the General Affairs Committee, which could advance the measure to the floor for a full debate.
The compromise, which is still tentative, would allow patients to possess up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower and bud for use in edibles, tinctures, or other forms of consumption. This would allow patients to access the raw parts of the plant, which was approved by 71% of voters in November.
The compromise is a significant departure from the original bill, which would have allowed patients to possess up to 5 ounces of cannabis. However, it addresses concerns raised by committee members, including Senator Rick Holdcroft, who had expressed concerns about the potential for abuse and the need for stricter regulations.
Holdcroft, who chairs the General Affairs Committee, said that the compromise addresses his concerns about smoking and the amount of cannabis that can be possessed. “I think we have enough votes to get it to the floor, and then it’s up to the entire body to decide whether or not to advance it,” he said.
Crista Eggers, executive director of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, welcomed the news, saying that the committee’s recognition of the importance of the issue is a step forward. “The people have spoken, and it’s time for lawmakers to take action,” she said.
The bill still faces significant hurdles, including the need for a 4% excise tax to fund regulations and revenue for property tax relief. However, Hansen believes that the compromise is a step in the right direction and could help to build support for the bill.
The public will have an opportunity to weigh in on the issue at upcoming forums, scheduled for Saturday, May 3, in La Vista; Sunday, May 4, in Omaha; and Monday, May 5, in Lincoln.
