Nebraska Needs 12,000 Signatures for Medical Cannabis

Nebraska activists are racing against the clock to gather approximately 12,000 signatures in just two days to place two medical cannabis legalization initiatives on the November ballot. The Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana (NMM) campaign has intensified its efforts as Wednesday’s submission deadline looms.

From 30,000 to 12,000 Signatures

Previously needing 30,000 more signatures, the campaign has made significant progress but faces a daunting task with the deadline imminent. The focus now is on securing a total of 87,000 valid signatures for each of the two proposed measures.

Medical Cannabis Legalization

The campaign has mobilized across Nebraska, setting up more than a dozen signing locations statewide on Monday alone. Urging widespread participation, NMM has called on Nebraskans to not only sign but also encourage others to do so, emphasizing community involvement in achieving their goal.

Challenges and History

NMM has encountered obstacles in prior attempts, including funding shortages and legal challenges that have impeded previous ballot initiatives. Despite setbacks, the campaign remains resilient, driven by the goal of legalizing medical cannabis for qualified patients in Nebraska.

The Proposed Initiatives

One initiative seeks statutory protections for doctors and patients involved in medical cannabis use, shielding them from legal penalties under state and local laws. The second initiative aims to establish the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, tasked with regulating and overseeing medical cannabis activities in the state.

Political Landscape

Governor Jim Pillen has voiced opposition to the legalization efforts, citing concerns over potential harms to children and advocating for FDA approval as a prerequisite for medical cannabis access. Campaign leaders dismiss these concerns, asserting that voters should decide on medical cannabis legalization.

Legislative Efforts

Efforts to enact medical cannabis legislation through Nebraska’s conservative legislature have repeatedly stalled. Legislative attempts led by Senator Anna Wishart have faced challenges, with bills failing to advance amid filibusters and committee dynamics.

Continued Determination

Despite past setbacks and ongoing opposition, NMM remains undeterred, emphasizing the importance of continued grassroots efforts until the signature deadline. The campaign underscores the necessity of community support in achieving their longstanding goal of medical marijuana legalization in Nebraska.

As the clock ticks down, Nebraska’s medical cannabis activists continue their final push, aiming to secure ballot placement and potentially reshape the state’s approach to cannabis policy.