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Minnesota legislature moves marijuana bill forward

On Behalf of | Mar 2, 2023 | Criminal Defense

With more states legalizing marijuana for medical or recreational use, many other states reconsider their own stance. While Minnesota passed a 2014 law allowing for medical use, it now faces the option of a recreational regulation as well.

Marijuana Moment reports on a recent House committee approval for recreational marijuana pending a Senate panel’s amendments.

Reducing harm and building business

Many testimonies before the House committee spoke of anecdotal experiences with medical marijuana. Others remarked that the current prohibition both does not achieve desired goals and costs families dearly — especially those in communities of color.

The Minnesota governor’s budget request included proposed funding for marijuana legalization and record expungements.

Understanding the current legal landscape

While the report is encouraging for those hoping for adult recreational marijuana use, there is still a back-and-forth to wait through. A Senate panel will review the bill next after the House approval and recommend amendments. There is no known date for when this bill may see a vote.

In the meantime, Minnesota residents ought to understand the current laws and penalties associated with marijuana possession. Possession of any amount without a medical prescription, up to 42.5 g, is a misdemeanor with a maximum fine of up to $200. Possession of higher amounts is a felony with incarceration consequences ranging between five and 30 years alongside fines between $10,000 and $1,000,000.

These drug charges impact the lives of anyone facing them. It is important for people to understand their options in order to reduce the chances that these charges affect jobs, families or futures.

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