Gov. Tim Walz, Democrats signal recreational marijuana could be legalized next session in Minnesota

Gov. Tim Walz and key legislative Democrats signaled recreational marijuana could pass the legislature next session, after their party took total control of the capitol and opened the door to passing more progressive proposals.

Walz in an appearance on WCCO radio Friday morning reiterated that it could happen next year. Former Gov. Jesse Ventura, who endorsed Walz’s campaign in the final days, said on a podcast Thursday that the incumbent DFL governor said cannabis for adults would be one of the first bills signed next session, a conversation Walz confirmed took place.

He credited Ventura for starting the conversation in Minnesota sooner than it was more common in states nationwide. After Tuesday’s election, where the issue was before voters in some states, 21 states have legalized marijuana for recreational use.

“It just makes sense. Prohibition didn’t work. We get better regulation.” Walz said. “I just mentioned that I think it would be important to recognize him, asked him if he would be there when we get this done.”

The new partisan makeup of the capitol next year increases its chances. While Senate Democrats did not outright commit when asked earlier this week, they will have the majority, clearing a roadblock that has thwarted legislation before—the DFL-controlled House passed a bill last May that didn’t get a hearing in the Republican-led Senate.

[Read more at CBS Minnesota]