ST. PAUL – Today, Rep. Jason Metsa (DFL – Virgina) introduced a proposed amendment to the Minnesota Constitution which would, if passed by voters in the 2018 general election, legalize marijuana in the state. His proposal is one of several potential approaches to the topic introduced this week by Minnesota lawmakers.
“Many politicians talk about fighting for liberty and personal freedom for their constituents, but this is an issue many of them here in St. Paul and in Washington have refused to move an inch on,” Rep. Metsa said. “I think if given the opportunity, Minnesotans would send a strong message to those who have kept in place a status quo, failed policy of prohibition that legalization is long overdue.”
Under the amendment, the personal use, possession, and purchase of marijuana would become permitted by those aged 21 or older. Additionally, it would allow Minnesotans to cultivate and process marijuana plants. Language in the amendment directs the Legislature to, by law, craft a framework of commercial regulation and a taxation system. The Legislature would also be responsible for setting the maximum permitted amount of marijuana an individual would be able to possess.
Before going on the November 2018 ballot, the measure would need to gain approval from both the Minnesota House and Senate. Ultimately though for Rep. Metsa, this is about giving citizens a voice in policy area he thinks many of them would like to see more progress, more quickly.
“Most states which have legalized this product have done so through voter approved referenda, and I think this is the best course of action with many Minnesotans so passionate about this,” he said. “With attitudes of Minnesotans changing so rapidly, it’s only right that they be given a voice in this discussion to decide which approach our state should take.”