Two New Minnesota Bills Would Legalize Recreational Marijuana

In Minnesota, two bills to legalize recreational use are circulating. The state is considering House Bill 926 and House Bill 927. Representative Jason Metsa introduced House Bill 926 with a dozen co-sponsors. House Bill 927 is introduced by Representative Jon Applebaum with seven co-sponsors.

House Bill 926 seeks to make changes to the Minnesota state constitution, according to Tenth Amendment Center. House Bill 926 would permit tax marijuana and allow legal sales to those ages 21 and older along with allowing personal possession and use of marijuana.

House Bill 927 is similar but would not amend the state’s constitution. It would require the State Commissioner of Health to create rules and regulations for the industry. The medical marijuana program would not be affected with the passage of House Bill 927.

House Bill 927 also includes language to protect marijuana-businesses and the privacy rights of those lawfully using the plant in the state. Consumers wouldn’t be required to give retail marijuana stores any personal information, other than proper photo identification to determine they are old enough to purchase marijuana.

Applebaum said, “Minnesotans are rightfully developing different attitudes on marijuana. Other states’ successes, along with the failed prohibition attempts of others, validated the need for a statewide conversation.