A new legislative resolution introduced today in the Nebraska Legislature would launch a formal study into the state’s medical marijuana framework, approved by voters last year.
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Legislative Resolution 226, sponsored by Senator John Cavanaugh along with Senators Ben Hansen and Rick Holdcroft, was filed and referred to the Legislative Executive Board. The resolution calls for an interim study to examine the implementation of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act and the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act.
According to the resolution, the study will evaluate how the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission is handling registration applications, including whether it has adopted and enforced clear rules and eligibility standards. It also seeks to assess the status of cannabis establishment registrations, including which applications have been granted or denied.
In addition, LR226 directs lawmakers to receive an update on the operations of the Medical Cannabis Commission and to gather input from medical professionals, patients, and caregivers about their experiences accessing marijuana for medical use in the state.
If approved, the study will be conducted by the General Affairs Committee, which will be tasked with submitting a report of its findings and recommendations to the full Legislature or Legislative Council.
Introduction of the resolution follows the overwhelming approval of medical cannabis legalization by Nebraska voters in November 2024, where Initiative 437 received 71% support and Initiative 438 garnered 67% approval, leading to the establishment of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission . Despite the legalization, the program’s implementation has faced challenges, including funding issues and regulatory delays.
