On May 22, 2023, Nebraska lawmakers once again failed to advance a bill to implement the state’s voter-approved medical cannabis program. The proposal was defeated in a cloture vote, falling short at 23-22. This marks another setback for the program, which received approval from approximately 71% of Nebraska voters in the previous November’s election.
Despite this latest legislative failure, Governor Jim Pillen indicated last week that his administration would support the newly formed Medical Cannabis Commission. He appointed Dr. Monica Oldenburg, an anesthesiologist, and Lorelle Mueting, the prevention program director at Heartland Family Service, to the commission. However, these appointments have faced criticism from advocates, including Crista Eggers, the executive director of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana. Eggers stated that both appointees have historically opposed medical cannabis, raising concerns about their suitability to oversee the program intended to help patients.
“We appreciate Governor Pillen’s effort to respond to the will of the people, but it is disingenuous to characterize these appointments as ‘experienced and well-qualified,'” Eggers said. She emphasized that appointing individuals opposed to medical cannabis undermines the public’s intent as expressed in the referendum.
State Attorney General Mike Hilgers has also urged lawmakers to dismiss the medical cannabis implementation bill, arguing that it could compromise public safety. Under the proposed law, patients with any medical condition would be eligible for the program, provided they obtain a recommendation from a qualified medical professional.
As the legislative deadlock continues, the future of medical cannabis in Nebraska remains uncertain.
English 
Spanish 
German 
Czech