North Dakota to Vote on Recreational Marijuana Legalization

BISMARCK, N.D. — A significant step towards legalizing recreational marijuana in North Dakota has been taken, as the state's Secretary of State, Michael Howe, announced that a ballot initiative has qualified for the upcoming November election. The initiative, backed by the group New Economic Frontier, successfully gathered over 22,000 signatures, surpassing the required threshold of 15,582. This measure aims to legalize marijuana for adults aged 21 and older, allowing use in private residences and on permitted private property. The proposed legislation outlines specific regulations for marijuana production and processing, while prohibiting its use in public spaces and vehicles. It sets limits on possession, allowing individuals to hold up to one ounce of cannabis flower, four grams of concentrates, and 300 milligrams of THC in edible products. Currently, marijuana possession in North Dakota is a criminal offense, with penalties varying based on the amount involved. The initiative also includes provisions for home cultivation of marijuana plants. Despite previous rejections of recreational marijuana initiatives in 2018 and 2022, proponents are optimistic about this new effort. Republican state Rep. Matt Ruby emphasized the potential economic benefits and improved access to medical marijuana as key points to communicate to voters. However, opposition remains strong, with groups like the Brighter Future Alliance voicing concerns over the negative impacts seen in states where recreational marijuana is legal, including increased crime and drug trafficking. As North Dakota joins a growing number of states considering marijuana legalization, the outcome of the November vote will be closely watched, especially as similar measures are also on ballots in South Dakota, Florida, and Nebraska.