North Dakota voters will once again have the opportunity to legalize adult-use marijuana this November as state officials have confirmed enough signatures have been submitted to place the measure on the ballot. Designated as Measure 5, the statutory initiative would allow adults 21 and over to manufacture, sell, and purchase marijuana, with the state tasked with regulating the sale of recreational cannabis.
Pot Legalization Ballot Measure : Details of Measure 5
The proposed measure seeks to establish a legal framework for the adult-use cannabis industry in North Dakota. If passed, the law would permit adults to possess up to one ounce of marijuana, four grams of cannabinoid concentrate, edible products containing up to 1,500 milligrams of THC, and up to three cannabis plants for personal use. The measure also safeguards employers’ rights to maintain drug-free workplaces and prevents local governments from banning the sale or use of marijuana by adults.
Support and Implications
The legalization effort is spearheaded by the New Economic Frontier, a group advocating for the economic and social benefits of marijuana legalization. Steve Bakken, chair of the group, expressed optimism about the upcoming vote: “We’re excited for North Dakotans to cast their votes on the legalization of adult-use cannabis in November. It represents a unique opportunity for North Dakota to diversify its economy and alleviate some of the burden on our law enforcement and judicial systems. It’s about unlocking our state’s potential and securing a brighter future for all residents.”
Pot Legalization Ballot Measure : Historical Context
This isn’t the first time North Dakotans have voted on marijuana legalization. In 2022, voters rejected Initiated Statutory Measure No. 2, with 55% opposing the legalization of recreational cannabis. An earlier effort in 2018 saw even less support, with just over 40% of voters in favor. Despite these past defeats, proponents of Measure 5 believe that shifting public attitudes and the potential economic benefits could sway voters this time around.
