On May 30th, Governor Tim Waltz signed a bill into law legalizing recreational cannabis use for individuals over 21. The law will go into effect on August 1st, 2023, making Minnesota the 23rd state to officially end marijuana prohibition. This new law introduces many regulations, including possession limits, and even has provisions, including automatic expungement of certain marijuana criminal convictions.
If you have questions regarding the new law or have been previously convicted of a cannabis-related drug offense, the skilled attorneys at Knutson + Casey will help you understand your rights and legal options. Our seasoned attorneys have three decades of experience helping their clients navigate Minnesota’s complex criminal justice system and are ready to use their knowledge and skills to fight for you. We take a personalized and innovative approach to every case and will fight tirelessly for justice on your behalf.
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It is essential to note that while HF 100 legalizes cannabis in Minnesota, it also comes with specific regulations limiting its possession, cultivation, and sale. As of August 1st, the new law will go into effect, and adults 21 and older will be allowed to possess up to two ounces of marijuana in public. They can also cultivate up to eight plants in their homes. However, only four can be mature, or flowering. Under the new law, Minnesotans can now possess up to two pounds of marijuana in their homes.
While the sale of marijuana is illegal without a license, adults will be legally allowed to gift each other up to two ounces as long as money or another form of compensation is not exchanged. Licenses are expected to take between 12-18 months to be issued before regulated sales can start. As of March 1st, 2025, existing medical marijuana businesses can receive new combination licenses so they may also participate in the recreational market.
Although HF 100 significantly loosens restrictions surrounding recreational cannabis use and possession, it is still vital to comply with the regulations above. Failure to do so may result in criminal charges. If you have been charged with a cannabis offense, a skilled attorney will help you protect your rights and fight for you throughout every stage of the legal process.
Also, keep in mind that Federal law prohibits the use and sale of marijuana, so bringing marijuana across state lines can still be a federal crime.
Certain marijuana misdemeanor records will automatically be expunged beginning this August. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is responsible for identifying those eligible to the courts, which will be responsible for processing the expungements. The new Cannabis Expungement Board may also consider some felony offenses for expungement or relief, including possible sentence reductions for those currently behind bars. Only non-violent cannabis misdemeanors and felonies will be eligible for expungement under HF 100.
The talented attorneys at Knutson + Casey are well-versed in handling expungements and will help you in the following ways:
When you partner with one of our trusted attorneys, we will work with you to understand your situation and advise you on the best path forward.
If you have questions about HF 100 and how the new law may impact you, do not hesitate to contact a skilled attorney. At Knutson + Casey, our attorneys are dedicated to protecting our client’s rights and freedoms and are here to fight for you. We understand the ins and outs of Minnesota law and have a proven track record of achieving the best possible results for the criminally accused.
To learn more about our services and how we may be able to help, schedule a free consultation today by calling (507) 344-8888 or completing our contact form.