A proposed bill to regulate medical marijuana failed to pass in the Nebraska Legislature on Tuesday, with a vote of 23-22. The bill, known as Legislative Bill 677, required a minimum of 33 votes to proceed. As a result of this rejection, the implementation of medical marijuana in Nebraska will now be managed by a newly established commission rather than through legislative action.
The initiative for medical marijuana was approved by voters in the previous fall election. One of the measures approved included the formation of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, which is designed to oversee the medical marijuana program. Last week, Governor Jim Pillen appointed two members to this commission, and the remaining three positions will be filled by members of the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. The governor’s appointees are scheduled for a hearing before a legislative committee on Thursday.
The failure of the bill has sparked frustration among advocates and residents who supported the legalization of medical marijuana. Many have expressed their discontent with lawmakers, asserting that the voters’ decision should be honored and swiftly implemented. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle between popular voter initiatives and legislative action in Nebraska’s political landscape.
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