The Minnesota House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee approved legislation today that would provide over $75 million in funding for the state’s Office of Cannabis Management over the next two fiscal years.
Filed last month by Representative Kaohly Her (D), the bill was approved on April 21 and has now been sent to the House Ways and Means Committee for further consideration.
HB 2443 would allocate $14.26 million each year in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 for cannabis industry community renewal grants. These grants are aimed at supporting communities most impacted by past marijuana criminalization, while also helping residents become social equity applicants under the state’s cannabis licensing system.
The measure would also provide $1 million annually for the CanGrow revolving loan account. This program helps launch and sustain small cannabis businesses, particularly those owned by individuals disproportionately affected by previous enforcement of marijuana laws. Both funding allocations allow up to 3% to be used for administrative expenses by the Office of Cannabis Management.
The bill would raise the OCM’s base appropriation to $35.6 million in 2026 and $38.1 million in 2027.
Supporters of the measure have emphasized the importance of maintaining robust funding for equity programs as Minnesota’s cannabis industry continues to take shape. The legislation now awaits a hearing in the House Ways and Means Committee.
More articles from The Marijuana Herald:
