The 2024 general election has one high point for cannabis law reformers.

Nebraska has voted to legalize medical marijuana via two related measures—IM 437 and IM 438. The former essentially legalizes medical marijuana possession, and a health care professional’s ability to prescribe medical marijuana. The latter clears the path for a new state commission to write rules and regulations for a medical program. IM 437 passed with roughly 71% of the vote, and IM 438 passed with 70%.

In 2020, anti-marijuana state officials succeeded in knocking a medical marijuana legalization measure off that year’s ballot on the grounds that it violated a ‘single subject’ rule. A separate measure in 2022 failed to gather enough signatures to appear on the ballot.

Even though this year’s measures passed, proponents aren’t out of the woods yet. This September, Nebraska prohibitionists filed a lawsuit accusing signature gatherers for the campaign of “cheating” and gathering invalid signatures. The argument lacks much evidence, however; the case is currently before a District judge.

Here’s what happens next, if the measures move forward:

Is medical marijuana legal for adults in Nebraska right now?

No. IM 438—aka the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Regulation Act—stipulates the creation of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, which must begin considering business applications by October 1, 2025. 

Don’t forget: Implementation of the program hinges on the district court allowing the measure to move forward.

How much marijuana will Nebraska patients be able to legally possess?

IM 437 legalizes the possession of up to 5 ounces of marijuana.

When can I legally buy marijuana?

The measures do not set a specific date that sales will start. 

Can medical patients smoke a joint in public?

Neither measure addresses public consumption. But odds are low that patients will be able to legally consume in public. 

Can I grow cannabis at home in Nebraska?

Neither measure addresses homegrow. 

Who will regulate legal growers and sellers?

If the measures go into effect, the to-be-created Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission will establish rules and rules for the program.

What kind of products will be available?

IM 438 gives a green-light to marijuana flower, concentrates, edibles, topicals and ointments.

Any equity or small-business licenses?

Neither measure addresses this question.

Will marijuana be taxed?

Neither measure addresses questions of taxation.

Stay tuned for more from Nebraska’s march toward medical cannabis.

The votes are coming in, and it’s time to see what 2024 means for cannabis lovers like you. From local measures to national policies, this year’s election could be a game-changer for anyone who believes in a little herbal freedom. Whether you’re in a state where weed’s still a bit of a gray area or you’re looking to see expanded rights and better pricing, this election’s outcomes could impact everything from where you buy to how much you’ll pay—and maybe even what you can grow at home.

So, what just happened? We’re breaking down the most important wins and losses in this year’s races, focusing on the stuff that’ll actually make a difference to the cannabis community. From legalization pushes to fresh tax laws, here’s what cannabis voters need to know about the new political landscape. Will 2024 finally be the year cannabis goes fully mainstream? Let’s dig in and see what the results mean for your stash, your rights, and your next dispensary visit.

Florida’s Amendment 3: Not currently passing

With 52% of ballots counted at the time of polls closing, Florida Amendment 3 is not meeting the 60% threshold to pass, according to cannabis news site Marijuana Moment. Amendment 3 is losing 55 to 45% in early returns.

South Dakota cannabis legalization: To be determined

Polls are still closing across the country and we’ll have to wait until later tonight for for more on South Dakota legalization Measure 29.

North Dakota cannabis legalization: To be determined

Polls are still closing across the country and we’ll have to wait until later tonight for for more on North Dakota legalization Measure 5.

Nebraska medical cannabis: To be determined

Polls are still closing across the country and we’ll have to wait until later tonight for for on Nebraska medical cannabis legalization Measure 437.

Oregon pot unions: Too early to tell

Polls close on the West Coast at 8 p.m. PST, after which we’ll have the first returns on Oregon Measure 119 to force pot businesses to obtain pro-union agreements from unions.

Massachusetts psychedelics legalization: To be determined.

Polls close on the East Coast at 8 p.m. EST, after which we’ll have more on the Massachusetts psychedelics legalization Question 4.

State and local races of note

Several state and local races will play a role in spreading cannabis freedom. Among them, Marijuana Moment is tracking three cities in Texas: Dallas, Bastrop, and Lockhart. Legalizing cannabis in cities can percolate up to bigger changes in state capitols.

President of the United States: To be determined

Both candidates have expressed support for legalization, either federally or at the state level. Then again, neither expended political capital to foment cannabis law reform during their prior tenure as President, or Vice-President.

Control of the Senate: To be determined

Despite promises from Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer—the US Senate has blocked cannabis law reform passed by the House. Neither party has passed legalization in the Senate when they held power over it. It’s unclear exactly how either party controlling the Senate would result in gains for cannabis voters.

Control of the House of Representatives: To be determined

Numerous flavors of cannabis law reform have passed out of the House under both Democrat and Republican control. But they’ve died in the Senate. The parties are split on legalization over things like taxes, banking, regulations, special treatment for certain groups, and other facets of winding down the war on weed.