Meanwhile three out of five respondents would approve of federal legalization
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A recent poll conducted by MPR News, KARE 11, and the Minnesota Star Tribune shows that despite Minnesota legalizing adult-use cannabis over a year ago, only 14 percent of respondents reported using marijuana or THC-infused hemp products in the past month. However, the poll found that a majority of those surveyed—61 percent—support the legalization of cannabis at a national level. The poll, conducted by Mason Dixon Polling & Strategy, surveyed 800 likely voters between September 16 and 18, with a margin of error of 3.5 percentage points.
While adults 21 and older in Minnesota have been able to possess, use, and grow marijuana for personal use since August 2023, cannabis remains limited in availability for sale as the state continues to develop regulations for production and retail. Zach Wilson, CEO of the White Earth Nation dispensary Waabigwan Mashkiki, attributes the low usage numbers to accessibility and education. The dispensary, which opened in 2023, operates outside of the state’s regulatory framework and serves around 4,000-5,000 customers per month.
Wilson expects that cannabis use will increase once more dispensaries open across the state. In contrast, James Elliott, owner of Lakes Area Grow Co. in Fergus Falls, expressed concerns about national legalization. While recognizing the benefits of local cannabis production, Elliott worries that interstate commerce could harm small businesses and open the door for corporate control. He also cautions that federal rescheduling could complicate the landscape, potentially limiting home growers and local dispensaries.
Minnesota law currently allows households to grow up to eight cannabis plants, with a maximum of four being mature at any given time. As the state prepares to expand retail sales, possibly by 2025, both business owners and consumers anticipate significant changes in the cannabis market.
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