Today, Secretary of State Michael Howe announced that a marijuana legalization initiative has officially qualified for the November ballot as Measure 5.
The New Economic Frontier, the organization behind the measure, submitted over 22,000 signatures, far more than the minimum requirement of 15,582 to secure a spot on the ballot.
The initiative, if passed, would legalize the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, four grams of marijuana concentrates, and 1,500 milligrams of adult-use cannabinoid products for adults aged 21 and older. It would also allow residents to grow up to three marijuana plants for personal use and establish a regulated market where marijuana products can be purchased from licensed retailers.
Steve Bakken, chairperson of the New Economic Frontier, shared his enthusiasm about the upcoming vote. “We’re excited for North Dakotans to cast their votes on the legalization of adult-use cannabis in November. It represents a unique opportunity for North Dakota to diversify its economy and alleviate some of the burden on our law enforcement and judicial systems. It’s about unlocking our state’s potential and securing a brighter future for all residents.”
With this certification, North Dakota joins South Dakota and Florida in placing recreational marijuana legalization on the ballot for voters to decide this November.
