Recreational Marijuana Bill Passes Minnesota House

(KNSI) – The bill to legalize recreational marijuana in Minnesota has passed through the House by a 72-61 vote.

That bill, approved late last night, allows the purchase and possession of small amounts of marijuana by those 21 and over while also expunging non-violent offenses involving cannabis.

The vote was mostly along party lines, though four Democrats voted against and six Republicans voted in favor.

St. Cloud area Representative Dan Wolgamott issued a statement after the vote saying, “Minnesota’s outdated cannabis laws are doing far more harm than good. That’s why I co-authored House File 600 to legalize cannabis for adult use and create a regulatory framework that changes our system which causes disproportionate harm to Minnesotans of color. This is a comprehensive, responsible bill, crafted with direct input from the people of St. Cloud. It’s time to legalize, expunge, and regulate.”

The bill passed through 12 committees this legislative session on its way to the House. The vote was also historic, marking the first time either chamber has voted on the legalization of recreational marijuana.

The bill now moves to the Republican-controlled Senate, where Majority Leader Paul Gazelka has said it will not be brought to a floor vote.

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