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Bill

LB 651

Change provisions of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act and the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act and provide for regulation of medical cannabis

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Danielle Conrad

LB 651 establishes a comprehensive medical cannabis program in Nebraska, expanding patient access, prohibiting employment discrimination, and creating a regulatory framework for licensed cultivators, manufacturers, and dispensaries.

Title printed. Carryover bill
2
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LB 651

LB 651: The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Patient Protection and Regulation Act

Summary

LB 651 is a comprehensive bill that would make significant changes to Nebraska's existing medical cannabis laws. The primary goals of the bill are to:

  1. Strengthen patient protections and expand access to medical cannabis
  2. Establish a robust regulatory framework for the cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution of medical cannabis
  3. Provide for the licensing and oversight of medical cannabis businesses

Key Provisions

Patient Protections and Access

  • Prohibits employers from discriminating against medical cannabis patients in hiring, firing, or terms of employment
  • Requires health insurers to cover the cost of medical cannabis for qualifying patients
  • Expands the list of qualifying medical conditions that allow patients to access medical cannabis

Regulatory Framework

  • Creates the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Control Commission to oversee the industry
  • Establishes a seed-to-sale tracking system and quality control measures
  • Sets standards for the cultivation, processing, testing, and retail sale of medical cannabis
  • Allows for a maximum of 30 licensed medical cannabis dispensaries statewide

Business Licensing

  • Provides for the licensing of medical cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, and dispensaries
  • Requires background checks, operating standards, and security protocols for licensed businesses
  • Imposes a 10% excise tax on the wholesale sale of medical cannabis

Impact

LB 651 would significantly expand patient access to medical cannabis in Nebraska. It aims to protect patients from employment discrimination and ensure insurance coverage, making the treatment more affordable and accessible.

The new regulatory framework would bring much-needed oversight and consumer protections to Nebraska's medical cannabis industry. Licensed businesses would be subject to rigorous standards, promoting product safety and quality.

Overall, the bill represents a major shift in Nebraska's approach to medical cannabis, transitioning from a limited program to a comprehensive system of patient rights, industry regulation, and economic opportunity.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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