Minnesota Legislators Introduce Proposal To Legalize Free Cannabis Samples
A new proposal has been introduced in the Minnesota Legislature for the 2025-2026 Legislative Session that seeks to allow free cannabis samples at events held in the state.
The proposed change to existing law has support from members of both political parties, with a version of the bill introduced in both the Minnesota House and Senate.
Here's what this means and what else to know about the proposed legislation.
Who proposed this free samples law change?
In the Minnesota House, the bill (HF 2716) was introduced on March 24 by DFL legislators Andy Smith of District 25B, Pete Johnson of District 08A, and Ethan Cha of District 47B, along with Republican Nolan West of District 32A.
READ MORE: Do Minnesota Cannabis Businesses Have Hours Rules Like Liquor Stores?
On the Senate side, (SF 2890) was introduced on the same day by Republican Senator Zach Duckworth of District 57 and DFL D. Scott Dibble of District 61.
The language of both versions is identical, aiming to amend a piece of existing law on the issue of free cannabis samples.
What is the legislation proposing?
If passed, this newly proposed amendment provides some changes for cannabis retailers selling products at events.
The proposal seeks to amend this existing 2024 Minnesota Law to remove language that currently bans retailers from giving away cannabis plants, flower, edibles, or other products at events where they and/or the organizer are otherwise permitted to sell products.
As the 2024 law is currently worded, samples were permitted to be put on display or for customers to examine or smell, but not to consume.
The proposed change would allow licensed retailers to give away samples that fit certain parameters, including quantity/potency, in the categories of things like cannabis flower, edibles, hemp-derived consumer products, and other cannabis products.
Existing protective measures, including age verification, will still be in place.
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