Several major ballot measures in Nebraska are now officially in effect, following a proclamation by Governor Jim Pillen. The measures, which include the legalization of medical cannabis, abortion restrictions, and a new framework for paid sick leave, represent significant changes for the state. Here’s a breakdown of these new laws and their implications.
Medical Cannabis Legalized
Nebraska residents are now one step closer to accessing medical cannabis, with the official legalization of medical marijuana under the Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana campaign. While the law takes effect immediately, purchasing cannabis remains illegal until the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission establishes regulations.
- Timeline for Implementation:
- Regulations Deadline: July 1, 2025
- Licensing Start Date: October 1, 2025
- Legal Challenges: Despite the legalization, the campaign still faces two legal challenges, one of which is set to be heard by the Nebraska Supreme Court.
- Federal Implications: Governor Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers emphasized that federal law still prohibits cannabis, classifying it as a Schedule I controlled substance, though the U.S. government is in the process of reclassifying marijuana.
“Progress is possible, and the dream of accessible relief and healing for Nebraskans is closer than ever,” said Crista Eggers, campaign manager for the medical cannabis measures.
Nebraska joins the growing number of states that allow cannabis for medical use, but the state remains behind its neighbors, including Colorado and Missouri, where cannabis is already legal for recreational use.
Abortion Restrictions
In another significant move, Nebraska became the first state to embrace new abortion restrictions following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade. The new constitutional amendment prohibits abortions after the first trimester (roughly 12 weeks gestational age), with exceptions for cases of sexual assault, incest, or the life of the mother.
- State Legislation: The Nebraska Legislature retains the authority to pass further restrictions, including a complete ban if desired.
- Competing Measures: A competing measure, which would have expanded abortion access to fetal viability, was rejected by voters.
This marks a major shift in Nebraska’s abortion laws, aligning with the broader trend in some states tightening restrictions post-Roe v. Wade.
Repeal of State-Funded Private K-12 Program
Nebraska voters also rejected the continuation of a state-funded private K-12 school attendance program. Known as Legislative Bill 1402, the program had allocated $10 million annually for education scholarships or “vouchers” for private schools.
- Future Attempts: Despite the setback, advocates for the program have vowed to continue pushing for similar initiatives, though it’s unclear who will champion the cause following the term-limit of State Senator Lou Ann Linehan, the bill’s original sponsor.
Paid Sick Leave Set for 2025
A ballot measure ensuring paid sick leave for Nebraskans will take effect on October 1, 2025.
- Key Provisions:
- Employees will earn at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
- Small businesses (fewer than 20 employees) must offer 40 hours of paid sick leave annually.
- Larger businesses must provide up to 56 hours annually.
- Impact: Small businesses with 20 or more employees for 20 calendar weeks will be considered large businesses for sick leave purposes.
The Nebraska Department of Labor will be tasked with drafting the necessary rules and regulations. Although the law is popular among voters, opponents may try to amend it, requiring a two-thirds majority in the Legislature to make any changes.
“We are ready to defend the will of the people,” said the campaign manager for the paid sick leave initiative.
Final Thoughts
These new measures represent a mixture of progress and controversy, reflecting Nebraska’s evolving political landscape. While medical cannabis offers hope for patients seeking relief, the abortion restrictions and the ongoing debate over school choice reflect the broader national tensions surrounding state rights and individual freedoms. The paid sick leave law marks a significant step in workers’ rights in Nebraska, though its implementation remains a few years away.
