Cannabis Law & Regulation
On August 1, 2023, Minnesota became the 23rd state in the nation to legalize recreational marijuana use. This means there is about to be a new, massive industry in Minnesota.
The new law creates an Office of Cannabis Management, which will oversee the licensing and regulation of both medical and recreational marijuana. Depending upon the size and type of cannabis business ("cultivator, "cannabis event organizer," etc.) the applicant must submit a business plan, security plan, and other documents. All license holders must certify they will comply with cannabis-specific regulations regarding water, energy use, odor, and waste disposal, as well as general environmental regulations that apply to all businesses. If they will handle cannabis intended for food, an "edible cannabinoid product handler" endorsement is also needed. These and other requirements are still being tweaked.
The law is meant to discourage excessive restrictions by local authorities, who can limit the number of cannabis retailers to one for every 12,500 people, but can't ban the business outright. Most localities have placed a moratorium on cannabis sales until January 1, 2025, when licensed retail sales are to be authorized in the state. Until then, some towns are in "wait and see" mode, while others have begun writing ordinances regulating cannabis within their jurisdictions.
Although the OCM won't start taking applications until later in 2024, the time to start working on one is now, so that your application is complete, airtight, and ready for submission on the very first day OCM is ready to accept it. Whether you are applying for a license as a grower, tester, manufacturer, wholesaler, distributor, or retailer, Williams Law Firm can help ensure that all requirements are met so the application process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. We can also help draft procedures for regulatory compliance, corporate formation documents, contracts, and employment policies as needed. And, we can work with local authorities on your behalf to help limit local regulation to only what is necessary while ensuring the safe, responsible operation of cannabis businesses.