Rep. Pelowski More Open to Legalized Recreational Marijuana

Rep. Gene Pelowski

(KWNO)-A bill that would legalize recreational marijuana in Minnesota advanced out of its second committee earlier this week.  

Rep. Gene Pelowski DFL-Winona told KWNO he’s still going to wait to see what the final bill looks like before voting on legalization. 

“I’m more open to it than I’ve been in the past. I think we’ve all seen through the testimony and then through just the public reaction to this. There’s been almost a 180-degree turn in public opinion on the legalization of this and how it should be done,” said Pelowski.  

Pelowski said some concerns are determining the costs and procedures for regulation. He also cited opposition from law enforcement and business over a possible increase in people driving or coming into work under the influence of marijuana.  

Pelowski expects the bill to pass the House then flounder in the Senate.  Gov. Tim Walz has indicated he would sign a legalization bill into law.  

Listen to the full interview with Rep. Pelowski below.