Criticism Arises About Nebraska’s Medical Marijuana Program: What You Need to Know

After Nebraska voters overwhelmingly approved medical marijuana in 2024, many believed that real access to marijuana treatment for qualified patients was finally on the horizon. But almost a year later, frustration is growing. Patients, advocates, and even some lawmakers argue that the state’s proposed rules for the program are overly restrictive and contradict what voters intended.

This blog explains what’s happening, why people are upset, and what it means for Nebraskans who are hoping to participate in the medical marijuana program.

What Voters Approved

When voters passed the medical marijuana initiative, the goal was simple: to allow patients with serious medical conditions to legally access marijuana with a doctor’s recommendation. The measure included possession limits, set up a state commission to oversee the program, and outlined a framework for cultivation, distribution, and dispensaries.

However, while patients are technically allowed to possess medical marijuana, there’s still no legal way to purchase it within the state. That’s because the Nebraska Cannabis Commission is still finalizing the program’s regulations, and the proposed rules have sparked major backlash.

The Proposed Rules

The state’s proposed regulations outline how marijuana will be grown, processed, and distributed, but many of the details are raising serious concerns.

Key points of the proposal include:

• Limits on Cultivation: Each licensed grower would be capped at 1,250 plants, and only a small number of cultivation licenses would be allowed statewide.

• Restricted Product Types: Smoking, vaping, and raw flower marijuana products would likely be banned, even though the original ballot measure referred to plant material.

• Strict THC Limits: The rules would restrict how much THC a patient can purchase within a certain period.

Why People Are Upset

The backlash has been intense. During recent public hearings, dozens of patients, advocates, and lawmakers voiced their anger over what they see as an overly restrictive program that ignores the will of voters.

Here are the main concerns:

• Voter Intent: Critics argue that the restrictions go directly against what Nebraskans voted for. They say voters approved access to the marijuana plant itself, not limited extracts or pills.

• Limited Access: With so few growers and dispensaries, patients fear shortages, long travel distances, and high prices to access the medicine they need.

• Patient Needs: Many patients nationwide rely on smoking or vaping for fast relief, especially those with chronic pain or PTSD. Not allowing these forms could make treatment less effective for some patients.

• Lack of Transparency: Advocates were frustrated when members of the commission failed to attend a public hearing where people came to share their concerns.

• Legal Questions: Some state senators believe the proposed rules go beyond what’s legally allowed and could lead to court challenges.

• Missed Deadlines: The commission missed its October 1 deadline to begin issuing licenses, adding to frustration among patients waiting for access.

What This Means for Patients

For now, Nebraska’s medical marijuana program remains in a difficult position. While it is legal to possess marijuana with a doctor’s certification, patients have no legal way to buy it in-state. Without licensed dispensaries or a clear rollout timeline, many Nebraskans are still waiting for access that was promised nearly a year ago.

Staying Informed and Involved

Patients and advocates aren’t powerless. Here are some ways Nebraskans can stay informed and involved:

1. Stay Updated: Keep track of commission meetings and public hearings about the marijuana program. You can also check out our blogs at Nebraska Marijuana Card for updates on new rules, deadlines, and other patient resources.

2. Speak Up: Public comments and testimony can influence how the rules are finalized, and sharing personal stories can make a difference.

3. Be Patient, but Prepared: The rollout may take longer than expected, so plan and stay informed when dispensaries will open.

Moving Forward

The approval of a medical marijuana program in Nebraska was a major victory for patients across the state, but the fight isn’t over. Restrictive regulations threaten to slow down or weaken a program that voters clearly wanted to make accessible.

As the debate continues, patients and advocates are urging state officials to listen to the people and create a program that truly reflects Nebraska’s values, prioritizing patient care, access, and fairness.

For now, the best thing patients can do is stay informed, stay vocal, and keep pushing for a medical marijuana program that works as intended.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We're excited to help you get approved for medical marijuana as soon as Nebraska rolls out the medical marijuana program. It shouldn't be much longer! 

Our telemedicine appointments will provide an easy and convenient way for you to meet with our doctors and receive a medical marijuana recommendation, all from the comfort of your own home!

Don’t delay! Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors! We’ll set up an appointment for you just as soon as Nebraska's medical marijuana market is up and running. You’ll even save $25 off the cost of the evaluation when you reserve your appointment today! 

---

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.