Nebraska’s Medical Marijuana Industry Stalls Amid Regulatory Challenges
Despite a resounding “yes” from Nebraska voters in November to legalize medical marijuana, the state’s licensed dispensaries remain elusive. Critics of the state’s licensing commission argue that restrictive regulations are making it unattractive for entrepreneurs to invest in the industry.
One would-be grower, who previously operated a hemp business, has opted out of the medical marijuana market due to the ongoing political and legal disputes. Instead, they have shifted their focus to their core business, selling gardening plants and other horticultural products.
“I’m concentrating on my bread and butter,” said Danielle Waschkowski, owner of Estate Landscape Services. “I don’t have the time or energy to deal with all the red tape and uncertainty surrounding medical marijuana in Nebraska.”
Waschkowski had initially considered expanding her hemp business to include medical marijuana products, but after observing the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission’s efforts, she decided not to apply for a license. The commission’s slow progress and regulatory hurdles have left many potential players in the medical marijuana industry feeling discouraged and unwilling to take the risk.
