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. These acts aim to improve protections for medical cannabis patients and caregivers, establish a special sales and use tax rate on medical cannabis sales, and clarify definitions related to cannabis, including allowable amounts and roles of caregivers and healthcare practitioners. Key provisions include prohibiting the possession of open cannabis containers in motor vehicles, ensuring that employers cannot discriminate against qualified patients or caregivers, and allowing schools and healthcare facilities to set reasonable restrictions on cannabis use.

Additionally, the bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for medical cannabis, including the creation of various licenses for cultivators, dispensaries, and testing facilities, with a focus on social equity by prioritizing applications from individuals in disproportionately impacted areas. It mandates a seed-to-sale tracking system, outlines the responsibilities of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, and introduces the Cannabis Community Reinvestment Fund to support programs in affected communities. The bill also allows individuals with certain cannabis-related convictions to seek clean slate relief, ensuring that their records are sealed and not accessible to the public. Overall, the legislation aims to facilitate access to medical cannabis while ensuring patient safety, regulatory compliance, and community reinvestment.

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