Effort to Legalize Recreational Marijuana in North Dakota Gains Momentum

In Bismarck, North Dakota, organizers of a ballot initiative have submitted over 22,000 petition signatures to legalize recreational marijuana, potentially leading to a statewide vote on the issue that has been previously rejected by voters and lawmakers. The New Economic Frontier measure group, led by chairman Steve Bakken, aims to prevent potential issues seen in other states and align the measure with North Dakota's conservative nature. Bakken highlighted the need for law enforcement to prioritize combating opioids and fentanyl over minor marijuana offenses. The proposed 20-page statutory measure would legalize recreational marijuana for individuals aged 21 and above to use in their homes or on private property with permission. Specific limits on purchase and possession include 1 ounce of dried leaves or flowers, 4 grams of a cannabinoid concentrate, 1,500 mg of total THC in a cannabis product, and 300 mg of an edible product. While marijuana use by those under 21 is a misdemeanor, recreational use by adults is not a crime, but possession can lead to penalties ranging from infractions to misdemeanors based on the quantity. North Dakota voters have previously rejected legalization measures in 2018 and 2022, although medical marijuana was approved in 2016. Republican Governor Doug Burgum has granted around 100 pardons for low-level marijuana offenses from 2019 to 2023. The state's Pardon Advisory Board introduced a new process in 2019 to facilitate pardons for such offenses. Similar measures will be on the ballot in Florida and South Dakota in the upcoming November elections, reflecting the ongoing debate surrounding marijuana legalization across different states.