This bill amends various sections of Nebraska law to enhance the state's medical cannabis framework, introducing the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Justice Act and the Cannabis Conviction Clean Slate Act. It modifies existing laws, including the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act and the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act, to clarify definitions, allowable amounts for qualified patients, and the establishment of a special sales and use tax on medical cannabis sales. The bill ensures that qualified patients and registered caregivers are protected from penalties for lawful possession and use of cannabis, while also outlining employer responsibilities regarding employees who are qualified patients. Additionally, it prohibits the possession of an open container of cannabis in a motor vehicle and establishes regulations for cannabis use in schools and healthcare facilities.

The legislation also creates a comprehensive regulatory framework for the medical cannabis industry, including the establishment of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission to oversee licensing and regulation. It introduces a tiered licensing system to promote social equity, ensuring that at least fifty percent of licenses are issued to social equity applicants. The bill outlines the application process for licenses, emphasizing priority for social equity applicants, and establishes a Cannabis Community Reinvestment Fund to support programs in impacted areas. Furthermore, it introduces the Cannabis Conviction Clean Slate Act, allowing individuals with certain cannabis-related convictions to petition for clean slate relief, effectively sealing their criminal records. Overall, the bill aims to create a structured, equitable, and just medical cannabis system in Nebraska while promoting public health and safety.

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