Nebraska AG Prepares Appeal on Medical Cannabis Initiatives

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers is preparing to appeal a recent court ruling that dismissed a lawsuit challenging the validity of two medical cannabis ballot initiatives, which had been approved by voters. The AG's office has filed an amended cross-claim alleging fraud and malfeasance in the signature-gathering process, despite Judge Susan Strong's ruling that the initiatives had sufficient valid signatures to meet legal requirements. Strong noted that the plaintiffs failed to prove widespread fraud and that any invalid signatures were insufficient to affect the outcomes. The AG's office claims the amendments are necessary to reflect new evidence and prepare for a potential appeal, while opponents argue it fundamentally changes the nature of the case. The initiatives, which legalize medical cannabis and establish a regulated marketplace, are set to take effect within ten days of certification. The legal dispute highlights ongoing tensions surrounding cannabis legalization in Nebraska.