This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to strengthen the regulatory framework for medical cannabis, particularly concerning Tribal medical cannabis programs. It introduces new definitions such as "Tribal medical cannabis board," "Tribal medical cannabis program," and "Tribal medical cannabis program patient," which empower federally recognized Tribal governments to manage their own medical cannabis initiatives. The bill also expands the definition of "visiting patient" to include those enrolled in Tribal medical cannabis programs, facilitating their access to medical cannabis in Minnesota. Additionally, it modifies provisions related to home cultivation and distribution requirements, allowing registered designated caregivers to cultivate cannabis for personal use alongside their responsibilities for patients.

Furthermore, the bill enhances protections for medical cannabis patients, ensuring they are not discriminated against in education, housing, employment, and custody matters. Schools are prohibited from denying enrollment or penalizing students based on their medical cannabis status, and landlords cannot refuse to lease properties for the same reason. The bill clarifies that medical cannabis use does not disqualify patients from receiving necessary medical care, including organ transplants. It also prohibits employment discrimination against medical cannabis patients, mandates written notice from employers, schools, and landlords before any actions that violate these protections, and allows for legal recourse against violators, with increased penalties for non-compliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 342.01, 342.09, 342.51, 342.52, 342.57
1st Engrossment: 342.01, 342.09, 342.51, 342.52, 342.57