Marijuana has a long history, starting from the 1600s, when hemp was used for ropes and materials, to it being used for medical pain relievers, but it took a turn in the 1930s. Cannabis was used as a tool of propaganda against Mexican immigrants during the Great Depression. In the U.S., cannabis became illegal in 1937 due to the Marihuana Tax Act. Later, the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 classified cannabis as a Schedule I drug—a category for substances with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. This classification is outdated and in need of revision. Quickly, cannabis became associated negatively, often with racial bias
Though times have changed and marijuana is now used medically and recreationally in various states, Nebraska has faced its challenges. As of November 2024, medical cannabis was legalized in Nebraska. However, due to regulations, smoking is not allowed—it can only be vaporized. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is still not classified as a qualifying medical condition, and there has been political opposition to Legislative Bill 677 (LB677), the bill that amends Nebraska cannabis regulation.
Legalizing marijuana brings various benefits to the state, including job growth and increased tax revenue, criminal justice, and medical benefits. With these benefits, it’s puzzling why lawmakers are against keeping it more open legally for medical and recreational use. Professor of Political Science Tim Hill expressed concerns that lawmakers might face, such as that legalization could lead to competition among producers to create more potent and pure strains, potentially making marijuana more addictive. It could be religious, personal, or something different that is causing lawmakers to debate this, even though there was support from people.
Lawmakers continue to debate the bill this month. The deadline for cannabis regulation is July 1, so it will be a wait to see what is decided. It remains uncertain what compromises might be made, as lawmakers debate.
