A major marijuana policy bill aimed at reshaping Minnesota’s cannabis landscape is now heading to the full House after receiving approval today from the House Ways and Means Committee.
House Bill 1615, sponsored by Representative Zack Stephenson (D), is the House companion to Senate File 2370, which was recently approved by the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. The wide-ranging measure makes numerous changes to Minnesota’s marijuana laws as the state prepares to launch its legal recreational market in 2025.
Among its many provisions, HB 1615 and SF 2370 formalizes the Office of Cannabis Management as a state agency authorized to work directly with Tribal governments on marijuana and hemp issues. The bill also tightens rules around edible hemp products, banning synthetic cannabinoids like THC-O and HHC unless explicitly approved, and requires clear labeling, testing, and packaging.
The bill further allows on-site consumption of hemp-derived THC beverages outside of original packaging, provided required product information is displayed at the point of sale.
Changes to the medical marijuana program include shifting oversight from the Department of Health to the Office of Cannabis Management, expanding the authority of Tribal cannabis programs, and allowing caregivers to grow marijuana for registered patients at home. The legislation also ensures that qualified patients from other states or Tribal programs can access medical marijuana while in Minnesota.
New licensing requirements for lower-potency hemp products would be established, including a new wholesaler category. Additionally, cannabis businesses would need to enter labor peace agreements with recognized labor organizations.
Minnesota legalized recreational marijuana in May 2023, with personal use and home cultivation allowed starting in August. HB 1615 plays a key role in building out the regulatory structure needed before legal retail sales can begin.
