North Dakota voters will have the opportunity to legalize recreational marijuana for the third time since 2018 in the upcoming general election. Measure 5, crafted by North Dakota residents, promises economic benefits through taxes and fees, while opponents argue it raises social and enforcement issues. If approved, the measure would legalize marijuana for those over 21, with restrictions on growing facilities and possession limits. Proponents believe legalization is inevitable and that Measure 5 provides the state with full control over regulation and taxation.
The estimated fiscal impact includes revenues of $10.2 million and expenses of $8.3 million, with additional costs associated with behavioral health and social impacts. Supporters emphasize that existing restrictions on drug use in the workforce would remain in place. Despite opposition from groups like the Brighter Future Alliance, advocates believe that legalizing cannabis would eliminate criminality associated with its use and benefit society.
Recreational cannabis is legal in 24 states and two U.S. territories, but previous legalization attempts in North Dakota failed. Supporters of Measure 5 argue that legalizing marijuana locally would boost revenue and keep consumers from crossing state lines into federal offense territory. Critics, including law enforcement officials, believe that legalization would create challenges in testing for intoxication and potential abuse of edibles. Regardless, supporters see regulation, revenue, and control as valid reasons for legalization. If approved, legal use of cannabis would go into effect on Dec. 5, with the state developing a program for commercial production and sale by 2025.
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