The Minnesota House on Tuesday passed a cannabis legalization bill, CBS News reports. The measure passed 71-59, mostly along party lines, including the support of just two Republicans. One Democrat voted against the proposal.
The measure would allow adults 21-and-older to purchase cannabis and possess up to two ounces of flower in public and 1.5 pounds of flower in their homes. Under the measure, Minnesotans would be permitted to home grow up to eight plants for personal use.
State Rep. Nolan West, one of the Republicans to vote in favor of the legislation, said that while he supports the reforms, he hopes that some issues will be cleared up in the final version, including local control of cannabis businesses and the impact of broad legalization on the state’s existing hemp businesses.
“The majority of Minnesotans agree that the time to end marijuana prohibition is here.” — West, during a press conference, via CBS News
The state Senate is expected to take up its own version of the legislation on Friday. If approved, the bills would move next to a conference committee to come to an agreement on final language, with a final vote expected before the state’s legislative session ends next month.
Gov. Tim Walz (D) has long backed cannabis legalization and has said he would sign the legislation if it reaches his desk.
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