This bill amends various sections of Nebraska law to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding medical cannabis, specifically under the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act and the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act. Key changes include the definition of "allowable amount of cannabis," which is set at up to five ounces, and the introduction of terms such as "cannabis product" and "concentrated cannabis." The bill clarifies the roles of caregivers and qualified patients, ensuring protections against citation or prosecution for permitted activities, while establishing a presumption of legality for possession within the allowable amount. It also imposes restrictions on cannabis use in specific locations, such as schools and vehicles, and allows for civil or criminal penalties for violations. Additionally, the bill creates a registry program for qualified patients and caregivers, detailing application processes and confidentiality requirements.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission to oversee licensing and regulation of cannabis-related activities, replacing the term "registration" with "licensure" and expanding the commission's powers. It introduces a structured licensing framework with five distinct classes of licenses and mandates that at least fifty-one percent of ownership must consist of Nebraska residents until 2030. The bill also outlines specific requirements for applicants, including residency criteria and criminal background checks, and allows the commission to deny licenses for "good cause." It enhances enforcement mechanisms, requiring law enforcement to report violations and allowing local governing bodies to regulate operations through ordinances. Overall, the legislation aims to create a comprehensive legal framework for the regulation and use of medical cannabis in Nebraska, ensuring public safety and compliance with existing laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-416, 28-439, 53-105, 53-106, 53-110, 53-111, 71-5727, 77-2701.02, 77-2701.48, 77-2704.09, 77-4303, 81-1021