ST. PAUL, Minn. – The majority leader of the Minnesota House, Ryan Winkler, and 33 fellow Democrats introduced legislation to legalize marijuana. It would allow adults to purchase and possess up to 1.5 ounces and cultivate up to eight plants, four of which could be mature. The bill closely mirrors a Winkler proposal last year, which he called the “best legalization bill in the country.” Alas, the bill didn’t survive the Minnesota legislative process. Winkler, D-Golden Valley, said he’s trying again to end the black market for marijuana and provide “a safe, regulated marketplace.” How safe is marijuana? The legislation, Winkler said, would give Minnesotans the freedom to make their own decisions on a product that has some challenges but is relatively safe compared to other products.
Opting out
Absent among sponsors of the bill to legalize marijuana are these Southeast Minesota House members: Liz Boldon, D-Rochester; Greg Davids, R-Preston; Steve Drazkowski, R-Mazeppa; Patricia Mueller, R-Austin; Gene Pelowski, D-Winona; Nels Pierson, R-Stewartville; Duane Qum, R-Byron.
Expunge
The Winkler bill would also move to expunge most minor marijuana-related convictions.
Winkler. Ty and try again.