In November 2024, Nebraska voters approved the legalization of medical cannabis, allowing patients to access cannabis products for various medical conditions such as chronic pain and anxiety. However, as reported by the Journal Star on June 3, 2025, the Nebraska Legislature did not establish a regulatory framework during the recent legislative session. This oversight leaves patients in a complicated position.
As cannabis is now legal in the state, individuals can use it without the threat of arrest, yet the lack of regulations means that there are no guidelines for safe access or quality control of the product. Patients seeking relief from medical conditions may find themselves in a legal gray area, able to use cannabis but unsure of how to procure it safely and legally.
The absence of a regulatory system raises concerns about product safety and patient education. Without a structured approach, there’s no assurance that the cannabis available to patients meets safety standards or that they receive adequate information on its use.
Lawmakers will need to prioritize the creation of a regulatory framework in upcoming sessions to ensure that patients can access safe and reliable cannabis products. This will help to clarify the legal status of cannabis access and provide necessary protections for both patients and businesses in the medical cannabis industry.
For the time being, the situation remains uncertain for Nebraska’s medical cannabis users, who are caught between legalization and the lack of a clear regulatory path.