The bill has made it through five stages without slowing down
A marijuana legalization bill seems to have no problem passing through the various filters in Minnesota. Having recently been approved by the Fifth Senate Committee and with the strong backing of the former governor, the measure seems destined to succeed this year.
The proposal to legalize the green plant was put before the Fifth Senate Committee yesterday and went off without a hitch, receiving a narrow but sufficient vote of 5 to 4. In addition, the state’s celebrated former governor, Jesse Ventura, shared testimony where he once again demonstrated his passionate support for legalization, suggesting the new governor should take a similar stance.
The legislation sponsored by Senator Lindsey Port stood up to the environment, climate, and Senate legacy and won the battle. While an important step, the measure is expected to have to go through at least 18 committees before it potentially reaches the floor. It’s a long road, no doubt, but if it stays on the current track, it could be that 2023 becomes a positive year for all cannabis enthusiasts in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
“Prohibition of cannabis is a failed system that has not achieved the desired goals and has incredible costs for communities, especially for communities of color,” Port said in opening remarks. She says this measure is the ideal opportunity to undo some of the damage that has been evident so far, as it also develops a regulatory system that accommodates the needs of both businesses and in-state consumers. She made it clear that her main goal is to regulate and legalize marijuana, something that could be possible if the proposal continues to receive the support of legislators.