Minnesota DFL introduces legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis

(ABC 6 News) – On the third day of the 2023 legislative session, House DFL lawmakers have introduced a bill to legalize recreational marijuana in Minnesota.

“We know Minnesota’s current cannabis laws are doing more harm than good,” said Rep. Zack Stephenson (DFL – Coon Rapids), the bill’s House author. “Over the last 3 years, DFLers in the legislature have worked and listened to build a Minnesota-specific model for cannabis legalization. Our bill creates a safe, well-regulated legal marketplace, including best practices for consumer protection, health, and public safety. It also includes a robust expungement program, so people who have disproportionately been caught in the criminal justice system due to cannabis can move on with their lives. Minnesota is ready for legalization.”

It's time to legalize adult-use cannabis and expunge cannabis convictions in Minnesota. I’m ready to sign it into law.

— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) January 5, 2023

“Minnesotans have made it clear that they are ready to move forward with the legalization of adult-use cannabis in our state, and we will get it done this year,” said Senator Lindsey Port (DFL – Burnsville), the Senate author. “We have work to do in the Senate, but we are ready to have those robust discussions and pass this into law.”