NE LB651

Amends voter-approved Initiative Laws 437 and 438 from 2024 to implement a comprehensive regulatory framework for medical cannabis in Nebraska, creating the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission (with Nebraska Liquor Control Commission members serving ex officio) to oversee licensing and regulation

Establishes a patient registry program through the Department of Health and Human Services, requiring patients to obtain written recommendations from health care practitioners for qualifying medical conditions and limiting possession to five ounces unless a practitioner authorizes more

Creates a vertical licensing system limiting the state to no more than ten vertical licenses until January 1, 2030, with each license allowing one dispensary per congressional district, one cultivation facility (capped at 10,000 square feet flowering canopy), and one products manufacturing facility

Imposes a 4% special sales tax on medical cannabis sales to qualified patients and registered caregivers, with proceeds credited to the Medical Cannabis Control Fund, and sets licensing fees between $50,000-$100,000 for initial applications and $10,000-$25,000 for renewals

Prohibits cannabis consumption in public places, on school grounds, in correctional facilities, and in motor vehicles; requires child-resistant packaging and detailed labeling; and restricts edible products to 10mg THC per serving and 100mg per package