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, allowing registered designated caregivers to cultivate cannabis for personal use while assisting patients, and establishes specific distribution protocols for visiting patients.

Moreover, the bill enhances protections for patients enrolled in both state and Tribal medical cannabis programs. It includes new legal language that protects members of Tribal medical cannabis boards and their staff from civil penalties while participating in these programs. Patients cannot face penalties from occupational or professional licensing boards based solely on their cannabis use or enrollment status, and discrimination against patients in employment, housing, and educational settings is prohibited. The bill also safeguards patient information from unauthorized access, restricts law enforcement's access to the registry to valid search warrants, and ensures that patients cannot be denied custody or visitation rights due to their medical cannabis status. It increases the civil penalty for violations from $100 to $1,000, aiming to enhance legal protections for medical cannabis patients and uphold their rights across various sectors.

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
2nd Engrossment: 342.01, 342.09, 342.51, 342.52, 342.56, 342.57