"A form of reparation": Minnesota to compensate communities that suffered "direct harm" from marijuana being illegal

As of Aug. 1, 2023, recreational marijuana use is legal in Minnesota. The measure was signed into law by Governor Tim Waltz on May 30 and includes: legal consumption of the drug for those over 21 years of age, who may also carry up to 2 ounces of cannabis in public and have up to 2 pounds in their private residence.

The law that made the state the 23rd to allow the legal consumption of marijuana does not stop there. Some legislators, sponsors of the legalization bill, will implement a plan that aims to give millions in compensation to communities that have suffered what they call "direct harm" due to the drug being illegal.

"A form of reparation" for those convicted of drug possession

State Senator Lindsey Port, sponsor of the bill, assured that granting millions of dollars to citizens who were convicted of use or possession of marijuana is "a form of reparation." This measure, called "CanRenew," is intended to provide financial relief to those who have committed drug-related crimes.

The grants would go into effect in 2026 and would deliver $15 million to some organizations within communities that have "experienced a disproportionately large amount of cannabis enforcement," according to the bill.

The Star Tribute reported that the money could go to communities where "high concentrations of people who were convicted for a marijuana offense or had family members who were convicted."

Legislators in favor of legalization but against reparations

State Representative Nolan West, who voted in favor of legalizing the drug, commented that he does not support the grant program, as the money will be "wasted."

However, despite the criticism, Port called the measure the "first major investment," as "direct harm has been done to communities by prohibition and by the state, and it is our responsibility to undo that harm":