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LC 1813

Interim study of the public health and safety impacts of marijuana legalization

2025 Regular Session

Montana authorizes interim legislative study examining public health and safety impacts of recreational marijuana legalization to inform future policy decisions.

(LC) Draft Ready for Delivery
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Bill Summary · LC 1813

Legislative bill overview

LC 1813 is a Montana bill authorizing an interim study to examine the public health and safety impacts resulting from marijuana legalization in the state. The study would gather data and analyze effects across health outcomes, safety metrics, and related policy areas during the legislative interim period. This is a research and fact-finding measure rather than substantive marijuana regulation.

Why is this important

Montana legalized recreational marijuana in 2020, and this study would provide the first comprehensive legislative assessment of real-world consequences since implementation. The findings could inform future regulatory adjustments, funding priorities, or additional legislation addressing any documented harms or unintended consequences. Evidence-based data is crucial for policymakers to evaluate whether current regulations are adequately protecting public health and safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Study scope and neutrality – Disagreement over which health and safety metrics should be prioritized, and whether the study design favors particular conclusions about legalization's success or failure
  • Resource allocation – Questions about funding costs and whether legislative resources should focus on studying existing law versus addressing other priorities
  • Predetermined outcomes – Concerns from legalization supporters that the study is designed to build a case for re-criminalization, versus concerns from opponents that it will downplay legitimate harms

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

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