In the upcoming November election, North Dakota voters will have the opportunity to vote on legalizing marijuana for adult use.

This development follows the certification by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Michael Howeand confirmed that organizers had collected the necessary valid signatures to put the bill on the ballot, Marijuana Moment reported.

See also: North Dakota’s cannabis legalization initiative collects enough signatures for November ballot, activists say

The initiative, led by the New Economic Frontier campaign, could bring about significant changes in the state’s legal landscape.

“It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for North Dakota to diversify its economy and reduce the burden on our law enforcement and justice systems. It’s about unlocking the potential of our state and securing a better future for all residents,” said the campaign chairman. Steve Bakken.

A difficult path lies ahead of us

Despite the campaign’s success, recent polls suggest the measure could be an uphill battle. A survey by the independent political action committee Brighter Future Alliance found that 57 percent of likely voters oppose legalization, while 43 percent favor it.

This isn’t the first time North Dakotans have faced a cannabis legalization proposal. Just two years ago, a similar proposal was defeated at the ballot box. However, the current initiative offers a more structured approach to regulation and licensing that could appeal to a broader swath of voters.

What the measure includes

Under the proposed measure, adults over 21 would be allowed to possess up to one ounce of marijuana flower, four grams of concentrate and 300 milligrams of edibles. They would also be allowed to grow up to three plants for personal use, with a limit of six plants per household.

The measure outlines a regulatory framework to be administered by the state Department of Health or another agency designated by the legislature. That body would be tasked with establishing rules to implement the law by October 1, 2025.

The proposal imposes strict limits on the number of licenses to be issued, capping them at seven cannabis producers and 18 retailers, and includes safeguards to prevent the formation of monopolies.

The path to voting

The road to the ballot has been long and difficult for activists in North Dakota. The New Economic Frontier officially launched the campaign in April after filing the initiative with the state. There had previously been several unsuccessful attempts over the years, including a 2018 initiative by New Approach ND that was rejected by voters.

Despite these setbacks, North Dakota has made progress on cannabis legislation. In 2016, voters approved a law establishing medical marijuana. Last year, a law was signed allowing hospice patients to self-identify as medical marijuana patients.

As the state prepares to vote in November, the outcome is still uncertain, but the decision will undoubtedly have lasting effects on North Dakota’s legal and economic landscape.

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