New laws on cannabis in effect as of August 1

Beginning August 1, a new state law now allows adults ages 21 and older to use, possess and grow cannabis (marijuana) in Minnesota. Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize recreational cannabis use. Things to keep in mind:

  • Adults 21 and older can legally possess and publicly transport:
    • up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower
    • up to 8 grams of cannabis concentrates
    • up to 800 milligrams of THC in edible cannabis products
    • Up to 2 pounds of marijuana in their homes
    • Up to 8 marijuana plants, with four or less flowering at one time
  • It remains illegal to sell cannabis products because no sellers are yet licensed to do so, except on tribal reservations. The State of Minnesota has said that licensing will be available in 2025.
  • Driving under the influence remains illegal, and it is illegal to use cannabis products while driving.
  • It is illegal to use intoxicating cannabis products in the following locations: vehicles, schools, state correctional facilities, anywhere smoking is prohibited by the Minnesota Clean Indoor Air Act, anywhere that smoke or vapor could be inhaled by minors and on federal lands.
  • Low-potency hemp-derived edibles and drinks continue to remain legal. Businesses must register with the Minnesota Department of Health by October 1, 2023 in order to continue selling these products.
  • Richfield Liquor stores will begin to sell low-potency edibles and drinks in the near future.

With current laws in place, the city of Richfield has limited capacity to impose additional regulations related to the use and sale of cannabis products. The city is in the preliminary stages of creating an ordinance to limit the use of cannabis on public property, similar to regulations around the use of tobacco and alcohol in public spaces. Regulatory processes are also being discussed to offer the city the ability combat illegal sales within the city. The city will continue to monitor information from the state’s Office of Cannabis Management and other partners as it develops local policies, regulations and training to guide these new laws.

 

More information is available at:

https://cannabis.mn.gov/

https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/cannabis/edibles/businessinfo.html