Nebraskans Push Back Against Restrictive Medical Cannabis Regulations
LINCOLN — Emotions ran high in Lincoln this week as dozens of Nebraskans filled a state hearing room to protest newly proposed medical cannabis regulations. The passionate turnout reflected the ongoing frustration of voters who overwhelmingly supported the legalization of medical cannabis in the 2024 general election but now feel betrayed by overly strict rules from the state’s new Medical Cannabis Commission.
Thirty-two residents testified against the regulations none in favor. Speakers argued the new rules would make medical cannabis inaccessible to many patients who need it most. Several criticized the commissioners for not attending the hearing, saying the absence showed a lack of respect for the thousands of Nebraskans whose lives could be improved by medical cannabis.
In 2024, over 70% of voters approved legalizing medical cannabis, while 67% supported creating a regulatory commission. Since December, qualified patients have been allowed to possess up to five ounces of medical cannabis with a practitioner’s recommendation. However, the product still cannot be purchased in-state due to the commission’s delays and new restrictions.
The commission recently advanced stricter guidelines that limit how much delta-9 THC can be purchased, cap cultivation at 1,250 flowering plants, and prohibit smoking or vaping forms of medical cannabis. Many testifiers said these restrictions go directly against the will of the voters.
Veteran Edward Williams shared that smoking or vaping medical cannabis helps manage his PTSD, explaining that edible options are too slow to take effect. Others described the plant as a life-changing treatment for chronic pain, cancer, and end-of-life care. “We could have had a few more meaningful days with my mother if she’d had access to medical cannabis,” one testifier said tearfully.
Registered Nurse Tracey Davidson also spoke about witnessing the positive effects of medical cannabis firsthand. Her brother-in-law, who lived in Colorado, relied on it to manage his cancer symptoms and maintain his quality of life until his passing.
Several testifiers accused state officials of pushing a political agenda rather than implementing what voters approved.
Others warned that the state is losing potential revenue and residents to neighboring states where medical cannabis is already regulated and available.
As the Medical Cannabis Commission prepares to finalize its decision, patients, veterans, and advocates remain hopeful that Nebraska will listen to its people and finally deliver the compassionate, voter-backed medical cannabis program they were promised.
by Nebraska Examiner
