North Dakota voters will soon decide whether to legalize recreational marijuana, marking the state’s second attempt in two years to pass such a measure.
The proposal, supported by the New Economic Frontier group, secured its place on the November ballot after collecting over 18,000 verified signatures, comfortably exceeding the required threshold.
If approved, the measure would allow adults aged 21 and older to possess up to one ounce of cannabis, four grams of concentrates, and edibles containing up to 300 milligrams of THC.
Additionally, adults could cultivate up to three cannabis plants at home, with a maximum of six plants per household. The proposal also outlines a regulatory framework for commercial sales, permitting up to 18 licensed dispensaries across the state.
The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, or another state-designated agency, would be responsible for overseeing the industry, with regulations set to be established by October 2025.
Proponents of the measure, including Steve Bakken, a Burleigh County commissioner and former Bismarck mayor, argue that legalization offers significant economic benefits and a more efficient use of law enforcement resources.
Bakken emphasized that law enforcement could redirect its focus from marijuana-related offenses to more pressing issues, such as opioid and fentanyl abuse. He also noted that passing this measure would prevent out-of-state efforts to legalize marijuana in ways that might be difficult for North Dakota to manage.
This upcoming vote follows the rejection of similar measures in 2018 and 2022. Despite these setbacks, supporters are optimistic about the potential economic growth and regulatory improvements that legalization could bring to the state. However, opposition remains strong.
The Brighter Future Alliance, a group against the measure, expressed concern about the potential negative impacts of legalization, such as increased crime, DUIs, and illegal drug trafficking. Burleigh County Sheriff Kelly Leben echoed these concerns, warning that legalization could exacerbate existing issues rather than alleviate them.
