Since last summer's legalization of the recreational use of cannabis in Minnesota, local governments have continued to grapple with the "where" and "when" of weed businesses coming to town.
While tribal nations in the state are leading the way with official dispensaries and growing operations, sales have yet to begin in much of the state and regulatory infrastructure underwent more changes in the 2024 legislative session.
But the day when businesses can begin to sell cannabis is fast approaching. Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management has opened its social equity applicant process for cannabis growing and manufacturing with pre-approval beginning July 24 and the application window closing Aug. 12. Businesses licenses for growing cannabis are expected to be issued this fall.
Bemidji's city government is currently in the process of establishing a moratorium on cannabis businesses, with a public hearing scheduled for its Monday, July 15, agenda. In a work session last month, City Attorney Katie Nolting advised the council to enact a moratorium, allowing the city's planning and zoning board and commission an opportunity to plan for cannabis businesses.
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