(KNSI) – Minnesota House Democrats have launched a push to legalize recreational marijuana, but will it fly with Republicans?
House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler says by the state regulating the sale of marijuana, it could cut down on users unknowingly getting a product that could be laced with another substance.
“Our priorities are to end the black market for cannabis and move to a safe, regulated marketplace where consumers know what they’re getting. [And] To allow Minnesotans the freedom to make their own decisions on a product that has some challenges, but is relatively safe, especially compared to other products.”
The bill would also move to expunge most minor marijuana-related convictions.
Republican Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka says now is not the time to bring up the issue of recreational marijuana, adding that the focus should be on balancing the budget, reopening schools and businesses safely.
Republican Senator Pat Garafalo issued a statement on the matter, saying he would be on board with it, adding it’s “not a partisan issue” and, “Members of all political parties should work together towards implementing a better regulatory model to address the expensive, inefficient, and unfair prohibition on marijuana.”
Democratic Governor Tim Walz has also said he favors legalizing marijuana for recreational use in Minnesota. The state allows for medical marijuana for some qualifying conditions. Medical cannabis lacks the chemical THC, which gives marijuana its psychological effects.
Fifteen other states and the District of Columbia have all legalized recreational marijuana for adults.
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