This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 342.13, to enhance local control over cannabis businesses. It allows local governments to prohibit the sale and operation of certain cannabis products and businesses, including cannabis microbusinesses and retailers, while maintaining the right to regulate their operation within specified distances from schools and other facilities frequented by minors. The bill also introduces provisions for local governments to adopt interim ordinances to protect public health and safety during the planning process, extending the duration of such ordinances to two years from the date of adoption.

Additionally, the bill mandates the reimbursement of application fees for individuals who received license preapproval for cannabis businesses if local governments subsequently prohibit their operation. This reimbursement applies if the local government either prohibits cannabis sales in the intended location or adopts an interim ordinance after January 1, 2025, that restricts cannabis business operations. The bill aims to balance local governance with the establishment of cannabis businesses while ensuring that applicants are not financially penalized for local regulatory changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 342.13