Minnesota Legalizes Recreational Marijuana, Allowing Possession and Growth
Minnesota became the 23rd state in the United States to legalize recreational marijuana on Tuesday, as the new law allowing individuals over the age of 21 to possess and grow their own marijuana for recreational purposes went into effect. However, there are several restrictions and limitations in place as the state establishes a legal cannabis industry in the coming months and years.
While neighboring states such as Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota have yet to legalize recreational marijuana, at least two tribal nations in northwestern Minnesota, the Red Lake Nation and the White Earth Nation, are expected to open dispensaries for recreational marijuana later this month. These tribes are utilizing their tribal sovereignty to allow sales.
On the other hand, most other businesses in Minnesota are not expected to sell legal recreational marijuana until early 2025, as the state works on setting up a licensing and regulatory system for the new industry. However, business owners like Dennis Buchanan, who owns The THC Joint in Minneapolis and other cannabis-related businesses in the state, anticipate an increase in the sale of marijuana-related accessories to meet the growing demand now that legalization has taken effect.
Previously, Minnesota restaurants, breweries, and stores like Buchanan’s were permitted to sell drinks, gummies, and candies that contained up to 5 milligrams per serving of hemp-derived THC since last year when the state passed a law to allow it. With the new law, retailers can now begin selling marijuana seeds, as long as they comply with labeling and other requirements set by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Individuals over the age of 21 can now grow up to eight marijuana plants at home, with a maximum of four flowering at a time. These plants must be grown in an enclosed, locked space that is not visible to the public. Adults are also allowed to possess and travel within the state with 2 ounces of cannabis flower, 8 grams of concentrate, and 800 milligrams worth of THC-containing edible products such as gummies and seltzers. At home, they can have up to 2 pounds of cannabis flower.
However, it is important to note that bringing marijuana in from out of state remains illegal under federal law. Additionally, federal law prohibits cannabis consumers from owning firearms or ammunition. The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives has clarified that regardless of Minnesota’s new law, a current user of marijuana is considered an unlawful user for federal purposes. Therefore, individuals following state law are still prohibited from owning guns and marijuana.
When purchasing firearms, buyers are required to fill out an ATF form indicating their use of marijuana. Falsifying this form is a felony according to federal law.
As the legalization of recreational marijuana takes effect in Minnesota, the state is taking steps to establish a legally regulated cannabis industry. While the new law allows for possession and growth of marijuana, it is important for individuals to understand and comply with the restrictions and limitations in place, as well as the federal laws that still apply.
