The bill introduces significant changes to Minnesota's commerce and health regulations, particularly focusing on cannabis management and consumer data rights. It allocates new appropriations for the Office of Cannabis Management, including funds for regulation enforcement, product testing, and operating a state reference laboratory. Additionally, it increases the general fund appropriation for the attorney general to enhance compliance monitoring of the Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act. The bill also establishes a cannabis business background check account and mandates the commissioner of health to implement prevention and education programs related to cannabis use, particularly targeting youth and pregnant individuals. Furthermore, it creates a substance use treatment and prevention grant program, ensuring funds are allocated for recovery activities.

In terms of consumer data privacy, the bill outlines the "Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act," which sets regulations for personal data processing by businesses. It emphasizes consumer rights, allowing individuals to access, correct, delete, and obtain their data in a portable format, while also requiring businesses to provide secure means for consumers to exercise these rights. The legislation mandates that small businesses obtain prior consent before selling sensitive data and outlines transparency obligations for data controllers. Enforcement mechanisms are established, allowing the attorney general to issue warnings for violations before pursuing civil action, with penalties for non-compliance. The regulations will take effect on July 31, 2025, with an extended compliance deadline for postsecondary institutions until July 31, 2029.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 45.0135, 62Q.73
1st Engrossment: 45.0135, 62Q.73