Nebraska Medical Marijuana Bill Clears Committee Hurdle
A bill aimed at legalizing medical marijuana in Nebraska has finally cleared the General Affairs Committee, paving the way for debate on the state legislature floor. The bill, LB677, has faced a rocky road this session, with lawmakers struggling to agree on key aspects of the legislation.
State Senator Rick Holdcroft, a key sponsor of the bill, expects the debate to take place later this month. The latest development comes after a compromise was reached on the issue of consumable marijuana flower, which will now be allowed in vaporized form, but not smoked. Additionally, PTSD will not be included as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana use.
Advocates for medical marijuana, including Crista Eggers of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, hailed the breakthrough as a significant step forward. “Today was a huge win, showing that lawmakers are listening to the will of the people and willing to engage in dialogue on the issue,” Eggers said.
Despite the progress, the bill still faces opposition from some high-ranking officials, including Governor Jim Pillen, Senator Pete Ricketts, and Attorney General Mike Hilgers. However, voters will have the opportunity to speak directly with state lawmakers about the issue at upcoming forums in Omaha, La Vista, and Lincoln.
Twelve state lawmakers, including Senators Holdcroft, John Cavanaugh, and Ben Hansen, will participate in the public meetings to discuss the implementation of medical marijuana in Nebraska. The forums are set to take place this weekend, providing voters with a chance to weigh in on the issue.
