ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Democrat-controlled Minnesota Senate has passed a bill to legalize recreational marijuana.
The bill passed 34-32 and now goes to Gov. Tim Walz who has said he’ll sign it.
The bill takes effect Aug. 1 and will allow a person age 21 or older to possess up to 2 oz. of marijuana flower in a public place, or 2 pounds at home.
State officials would also begin Aug. 1 to expunge the criminal records of those with misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor marijuana convictions. Those with more serious offenses could appeal to a special board.
Bill sponsors said it would be 8 to 18 months before licensed dispensaries begin operation.
Cities could limit the number of cannabis dispensaries within their boundaries, with a minimum of one dispensary per 12,500 population.
