As many state legislatures wind down for the year, there's been a flurry of cannabis bills, many of them in deep red states. While some of the reforms are quite minor, and even many of those won't pass this year, legalization opponents have their backs to the wall:
- Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey(R) signed a fairly restrictive MED bill. "For once, we're not last," a local political cartoonist exulted. (Alabama is the 37th state to legalize MED.)
AL.com - Louisiana lawmakers are considering at least six reform measures.
NOLA.com - Next door in Mississippi, a court overruled November's successful MED ballot initiative, citing a outdated provision in the state's constitution.
The Hill - Minor reforms even have a fighting chance in Texas.
Marijuana Moment - The Minnesota house passed a REC bill that's likely to run aground in the state senate.
CBS - The Nebraska legislature struck down a MED bill, even though a more liberal proposal is likely to come before voters next year.
Cannabis Wire
In other state news:
- A new bill in Colorado would enact some minor restrictions on sales but does not include potency caps, which the industry opposes.
Denver Post - In New York, some Long Island towns may seek to ban dispensaries.
Newsday - As he faces a recall vote, California Gov. Gavin Newsom(D) has "lukewarm" support from the cannabiz. His longtime support for legalization has been undermined by the legal industry's struggles. Meanwhile, social equity activists are threatening to sue the state.
MJBiz - A prominent Nevada lawmaker called for a crackdown on the illegal market.
Nevada Appeal
