Minnesota has updated its cannabis regulations, introducing a new law that bans smoking and vaping cannabis in multifamily housing, effective from July 1. This restriction applies to all residents except those who are registered medical cannabis users with a valid medical card. The change was initially set to take effect in March 2025 but was expedited for various reasons, including the need for regulatory alignment between the Office of Medical Cannabis and the Office of Cannabis Management. Medical cannabis users can continue to use smokable and vapable cannabis within their homes, whereas other residents must adhere to the new restrictions.

The law was primarily pushed by Sen. Ron Latz due to health and nuisance concerns associated with cannabis smoke in enclosed spaces. Enforcement remains a challenge, as the responsibility falls to the Office of Cannabis Management, which has yet to establish a comprehensive process for handling violations. This has created ambiguities and concerns among apartment owners and managers who must navigate the conflict between residents who need medical cannabis and those who oppose its use due to health or nuisance issues. The law also raises questions about enforcement in federally funded low-income housing, where cannabis remains illegal.

Source: MinnPost