Minnesota Opens Cannabis License Applications

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has opened applications for cannabis business licenses, marking a significant step towards launching the state's legal cannabis market. Applications are open until March 14 for various license types, some of which are capped and will be distributed via a lottery in May or June. Social equity applicants, including veterans and those impacted by cannabis prohibition, have special opportunities, with half of the capped licenses reserved for them. This follows a previously canceled social equity lottery due to legal challenges. OCM Interim Director Eric Taubel emphasized the importance of getting licenses into the hands of business owners to kickstart the industry. The process aims to establish a fair and inclusive market, with additional license types and opportunities to follow later in the year.