After 1,400+ Days, Minnesota’s Next Cannabis Move Will Change Everything

The rollout of recreational marijuana in Minnesota has been long and bumpy, but this next milestone is a big one, and it’s one many have been waiting for.

Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management has made slow progress after early delays due to a preapproval lottery, which was eventually scrapped. Now, the state is moving forward with a general licensing lottery.

READ MORE: 5 Minnesota Beers Named Among Best In The World At 2025 World Beer Cup

According to Cannabis Business Times, Minnesota now has the third-longest adult-use rollout in the nation, trailing only Vermont (1,713 days) and Maine (1,431 days). Governor Tim Walz signed the bill legalizing recreational marijuana on May 30, 2023.

First Licensing Lotteries Set for June in Minnesota

After nearly two years of waiting and rule writing, Minnesota is finally ready to conduct its first licensing lotteries for adult-use cultivators, manufacturers, and vertically integrated “mezzobusinesses” on Thursday, June 5.

On the same day, the Office of Cannabis Management will also hold a separate lottery for social equity applicants seeking a license to open a dispensary in Minnesota. The state says general applicants will have their opportunity for dispensary licenses later this year.

More Cannabis Licenses Still to Come in Minnesota

Beyond the initial licenses, the Office of Cannabis Management is also reviewing and preparing to issue licenses for testing facilities, wholesalers, and delivery services to create a stable supply chain.

Future lotteries are also planned for cannabis events and lower-potency THC edible manufacturers and retailers as Minnesota continues to build out its adult-use cannabis marketplace.