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What Happened in Weed Last Week: Oct. 17-24, 2024 by Aron Vaughan

Welcome to the latest edition of “What Happened in Weed Last Week,” catching you up on the latest breaking news and industry developments in the world of cannabis.

Here’s what you may have missed over the last week:

Nebraska Voter Support for Medical Marijuana Nears 60%

A recent poll reveals that nearly 60% of Nebraska voters support legalizing medical marijuana through initiatives on next month’s ballot. Conducted by Emerson College Polling and the Midwest Newsroom, the survey shows that 59% of registered voters plan to vote in favor, while 33% oppose and 8% remain undecided.

Support is notably higher among Democrats and independent voters, with over 70% of independents backing the proposals. In contrast, only 42% of Republicans express support.

The ballot measures aim to provide legal protections for medical cannabis users and establish a regulatory body for its oversight. Advocates, including Nebraska Families 4 Medical Cannabis, face legal challenges regarding their signatures, but they remain optimistic about the economic benefits, projecting substantial growth in patient registrations and sales by 2030. Election Day is set for November 5, 2024.

Florida’s Anti-Marijuana Campaign Intensifies Ahead of Election

As Election Day approaches, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and state health officials are ramping up their anti-marijuana messaging against the legalization initiative, Amendment 3. DeSantis has faced backlash for using taxpayer funds for state agency ads that critics argue aim to sway voters. The Florida Department of Health released updated guidance warning of the risks of underage cannabis use, linking it to increased emergency room visits and cognitive issues.

Despite the administration’s concerns, a recent poll indicates that two-thirds of voters still support Amendment 3. Advocates for legalization are working to maintain this momentum, highlighting bipartisan support, including endorsements from figures like former President Donald Trump. As the campaign heats up, pro-legalization groups have raised over $100 million, while the opposition is also bolstered by significant funding. The clash over cannabis reform in Florida illustrates the ongoing tension between public health narratives and evolving attitudes toward marijuana legalization.

Willie Nelson Advocates for Dallas Decriminalization

Music legend Willie Nelson is rallying support for a marijuana decriminalization measure, Proposition R, set to appear on Dallas ballots in November. Nelson, a longstanding advocate for cannabis reform, emphasized the initiative’s focus on “fairness and freedom” and urged voters to end the criminalization of marijuana in Texas.

If passed, Proposition R would bar Dallas police from arresting or citing individuals for low-level cannabis possession, except in high-priority felony cases. The measure also prohibits police from using the smell of marijuana as probable cause for searches. Reports on the implementation of this policy would be mandatory for city officials.

The push for decriminalization is gaining momentum across Texas, with several cities already implementing similar measures. Despite opposition from state officials, including Governor Greg Abbott, who argues against local overrides of state law, public support for cannabis reform remains strong. Recent polls indicate a significant bipartisan majority in favor of decriminalizing marijuana, suggesting that attitudes toward cannabis are shifting in the Lone Star State.

Arkansas Supreme Court Blocks Medical Cannabis Expansion Initiative

The Arkansas Supreme Court has ruled against a proposed voter initiative to expand medical cannabis access, labeling it “plainly misleading.” This decision, made just two weeks before Election Day, prevents any votes for the measure from being counted.

In a 4-3 ruling, the court found that the initiative’s authors did not adequately inform voters that it would strip the legislature of its authority to amend the existing medical marijuana law from 2016. The proposed Arkansas Medical Cannabis Amendment of 2024 aimed to expand eligibility for medical cannabis cards, allow telemedicine assessments, permit adult use contingent on federal legalization, and legalize home cultivation.

Arkansans for Patient Access expressed disappointment with the ruling, suggesting that political considerations triumphed over legal precedent.

Minnesota’s Recreational Marijuana Market Set for 2025 Launch

Minnesota’s recreational marijuana market is on schedule to launch in 2025, according to the state’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). The OCM has released the first draft of operational rules under the 2023 adult-use marijuana law and is currently seeking feedback on a second version, which will be finalized in early 2025.

Business owners, like Shawn Weber of Crested River Cannabis, express frustration over the pace of progress, feeling caught in a “hurry up-and-wait” situation. OCM interim director Charlene Briner acknowledged the impatience but reassured stakeholders that the agency is dedicated to meeting the needs of operators, consumers, and medical patients.

To facilitate planning, the OCM has begun issuing “preapproved” licenses, allowing businesses to prepare for the market launch. Approximately 1,800 social equity applicants have submitted pre-applications for one of the 282 licenses to be awarded via a lottery, while local jurisdictions are already crafting guidelines for the upcoming adult-use market.

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