Nebraska’s Medical Marijuana Program Is Moving Along: What You Need to Know

Nebraska’s path toward implementing a medical marijuana program is finally gaining traction. After voters approved legalization for medical marijuana use in 2016, years of political wrangling and delays slowed its rollout. But, key structures are being formed, commissioners have been appointed, and legislation like LB 677 aims to define how the program will operate moving forward.

While dispensaries aren’t open just yet, the groundwork is being laid for patients in Nebraska to soon access legal medical marijuana. If you or a loved one are considering medical marijuana as a treatment option, now’s the time to understand what the program allows, how it’s being developed, and why obtaining a medical marijuana card will be essential for legal access and safe use.

What’s Legal Now in Nebraska?

Medical marijuana is legal in Nebraska, and has been since voters approved it by a wide margin in 2016. The law allows qualified patients to possess up to 2 ounces of dried marijuana flower or 200mg of THC products. These include oils, tinctures, capsules, and other regulated forms that meet the state’s medical guidelines.

While recreational marijuana remains illegal in Nebraska, and legislative efforts to approve it have not passed, the medical program is moving forward with increasing momentum.

The newly formed Medical Cannabis Commission is now responsible for creating rules, issuing licenses, and ensuring the state’s rollout adheres to what voters approved. With Governor Jim Pillen recently announcing executive support for the commission to begin its work, and with milestone deadlines set for July 1st and October 1st, Nebraskans can expect key developments this year.

Why Get a Medical Marijuana Card?

If you have a qualifying condition, obtaining a Nebraska medical marijuana card is the only way to legally access marijuana products for treatment. Although dispensaries are not open yet, having your card ready ensures you can be one of the first patients to purchase legally once sales begin.

Here’s why it matters:

• Legal Protection: A valid card protects you from arrest or prosecution for possessing approved marijuana products within the legal limits.

• Future Access: Once dispensaries open, only cardholders will be allowed to purchase products from licensed facilities.

• Doctor Approved Treatment: A medical card connects you to a licensed practitioner who can help guide your treatment options with marijuana, ensuring you're using safe, regulated products.

• Prepared: With regulatory delays and political interference still possible, getting your card now positions you for early access when the program goes live.

Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana in Nebraska?

While Nebraska’s official qualifying conditions list is still being finalized by the commission, past drafts and proposed bills, like LB 677, have identified several key conditions expected to be included. These commonly accepted conditions in other states, and likely in Nebraska, include:

• ALS autism with frequent or severe self-injurious or aggressive behavior

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

• Cancer

• Chronic or severe pain

• Crohn’s disease 

• Ulcerative colitis

• Epilepsy

• Glaucoma

• Hepatitis C (with nausea or cachexia)

• HIV/AIDS

• Huntington’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

• PTSD

• Severe muscle spasms

• Spinal cord injury

• Tourett's syndrome

• Serious conditions causing severe nausea or cachexia

• Any terminal illness with a possible life expectancy of less than one year

• Long-lasting severe or chronic pain that hasn’t responded to other, non-opioid treatments.

Patients must be Nebraska residents and may be required to submit documentation of diagnosis, along with a recommendation from a licensed medical provider once the registry is finalized.

What’s the Status of Dispensaries and Sales?

As of now, dispensaries in Nebraska are not yet open. The Medical Cannabis Commission is working on regulations and licensing, and the target dates have been set:

• July 1, 2025: Regulations must be finalized

• October 1, 2025: Licensing begins for dispensaries and producers

This timeline could shift based on legal and political developments, but progress is happening. Patients are encouraged to monitor the state’s announcements and register with licensed providers as soon as that process is open.

Political Tensions and Legislative Action

The road to medical marijuana access in Nebraska has not been smooth. While voters approved medical use years ago, implementation was stalled by political infighting and regulatory delays.

Recently, Governor Jim Pillen surprised many by signaling support for the commission to begin rulemaking. However, some of his appointments to the commission, like Dr. Monica Oldenburg and Lorelle Mueting, have histories of opposing medical marijuana, raising concerns among advocates.

To counterbalance these concerns, lawmakers like State Senator Ben Hansen have introduced LB 677, which would codify regulations, restrict smoking, outline qualifying conditions, and give the program a stronger legislative framework. While it faces potential filibusters and political resistance, LB 677 remains a critical piece of the puzzle.

Legal Challenges Still Loom

Nebraska’s medical marijuana program is making progress, but legal challenges remain. The Attorney General’s Office has threatened to sue the Medical Cannabis Commission if licenses are issued before clearer regulations are in place. Ongoing lawsuits also question the constitutionality of the ballot measures due to federal marijuana laws. For patients, staying informed is critical. While the political environment may cause delays, momentum is building, and public engagement will help ensure the state follows through.

For many Nebraskans with chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer, PTSD, and other serious conditions, medical marijuana offers relief where traditional treatments fall short. When used responsibly under medical supervision, it can reduce inflammation, manage pain, ease anxiety, and improve quality of life. Medical patients benefit from product safety, dosing guidance, doctor oversight, and, once dispensaries open, access to trusted sources. This program is about healthcare and patient empowerment, not recreational use.

Although dispensaries aren’t open yet, patients should prepare now. Review your eligibility, follow updates from the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, speak with your healthcare provider, and educate yourself on your rights. Taking these steps now ensures you’ll be ready when the program is fully operational.

Summary

After years of delay, Nebraska’s medical marijuana program is finally moving forward. With regulations expected this summer and licensing to follow in the fall, the program is on track to provide legal access to those who need it most.

If you're a patient dealing with chronic illness or a caregiver seeking safer treatment options, getting your medical marijuana card is the first, and most important, step. Nebraska’s program is being built to prioritize health, safety, and patient well-being, and your participation ensures its continued progress.

Stay informed, get prepared, and take charge of your care, the future of medical marijuana in Nebraska is finally within reach.

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 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! 

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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.

If you have any questions, call us at (833) 781-6665, or simply reserve a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!