Top Priority: Gov. Walz Signs Cannabis Compact

Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis market took another major step forward this week as Governor Tim Walz signed a cannabis compact with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. This marks the second Tribal-state cannabis compact signed since the state legalized adult-use cannabis, signaling a growing commitment to collaboration between Tribal Nations and Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).

According to OCM, the new cannabis compact creates a framework for the state and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe to jointly regulate cannabis operations. By outlining shared responsibilities, the cannabis compact ensures that both the state and the Tribal Nation can promote health, safety, and compliance while building a fair and thriving cannabis marketplace.

The state legislature specifically directed Governor Walz to negotiate agreements like this one under Minnesota’s cannabis law. Each cannabis compact helps clarify licensing, enforcement, and operational guidelines while fostering economic partnerships that extend beyond Tribal borders.

One of the most promising aspects of the Mille Lacs cannabis compact is its potential to open doors for collaboration between Tribal-run cannabis operations and state-licensed cannabis businesses. OCM noted that these partnerships could create new business opportunities, strengthen supply chains, and expand access for Minnesota consumers. By aligning standards under a cannabis compact, both sides can ensure consistent quality, safety, and transparency in the state’s emerging market.

“This is an exciting development in the rollout of Minnesota’s adult-use cannabis market,” said OCM Executive Director Eric Taubel. “The many newly licensed businesses preparing to open their doors to adult-use customers are eager to partner with Mille Lacs. This cannabis compact will open up unique opportunities that benefit the state, Mille Lacs, state-licensed businesses, and Minnesota cannabis consumers.”

The Mille Lacs agreement demonstrates how each cannabis compact can serve as a model for future Tribal-state negotiations. As more Tribal Nations consider entering the cannabis market, Minnesota’s approach highlights the importance of equity, sovereignty, and mutual benefit. Each cannabis compact strengthens the regulatory framework while also respecting Tribal self-governance.

With two agreements already in place, Minnesota is positioning itself as a leader in cooperative cannabis policy. These cannabis compact deals show how the state and Tribal Nations can work together to build a safe, inclusive, and profitable adult-use cannabis industry for everyone involved.

by Fox 9