Minneapolis Legislator Pushing Medical Marijuana Bill

A Minneapolis lawmaker thinks Minnesota should join the ranks of states loosening marijuana laws.

Minneapolis Sen. Scott Dibble (DFL-District 61) is the chief author of a bill in the Senate that would legalize medical marijuana. The bill was introduced in 2013, and legislators are likely to consider the measure this year.

Dibble said he got involved in the issue many years ago while working with people who have HIV and AIDS. He said sometimes marijuana offered them the only relief they could find.

“Unfortunately, folks are forced to break the law if they want to seek even the most modest form of relief that’s available through that avenue,” he told Capitol Report host Julie Bartkey.

Dibble said his bill would create a system that’s more regulated than in states like California, which has become notorious for lax oversight and the proliferation of dispensaries.

The bill has a tough fight ahead, though. Gov. Mark Dayton opposes the measure—although he says he wants to think about it more after a study on the issue.

Watch Dibble’s interview above and then share your thoughts in the comments section on whether you think Minnesota is ready for medical marijuana.