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 units of government 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 establishes a reimbursement process for application fees paid by individuals who received license preapproval for cannabis businesses that were subsequently prohibited by local governments. This reimbursement is contingent upon the individual having notified the Office of Cannabis Management of their intended business location before any local prohibitions were enacted. The bill aims to balance local governance with the operational needs of cannabis businesses while ensuring that local communities have the authority to regulate cannabis activities within their jurisdictions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 342.13