LINCOLN — Governor Jim Pillen officially signed proclamations on Thursday affirming the success of five ballot measures passed by Nebraska voters in November, ushering in new laws related to medical cannabis, abortion restrictions, and a framework for paid sick leave. Additionally, the proclamations marked the end of a state-funded program for private K-12 school attendance costs.
The new laws, including an abortion-related constitutional amendment, take effect immediately, except for the paid sick leave policy, which will be implemented on October 1, 2025. The ballot measures resulted from Nebraska’s most expensive year for such initiatives, but some details remain unresolved due to pending legal challenges.
Medical Cannabis Legalized
Medical marijuana is now legal in Nebraska after years of campaigning and legal battles. Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana succeeded in passing two initiatives: one legalizing up to 5 ounces of medical cannabis with a doctor’s recommendation, and another establishing a Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission to oversee regulations. However, purchasing medical cannabis in the state will remain illegal until the commission finalizes its rules by July 1, 2025, with licensing beginning by October 1, 2025.
While campaign manager Crista Eggers celebrated the progress, she acknowledged the delay might feel “agonizing” for those awaiting relief. Meanwhile, Governor Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers reminded Nebraskans that marijuana remains illegal under federal law as a Schedule I controlled substance, though federal reclassification efforts are ongoing. Nebraska joins 38 other states that permit some form of medical cannabis.
Nebraska Implements Abortion Restrictions
Nebraska has become the first state to enact abortion restrictions since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. The Nebraska Constitution now prohibits abortions after the first trimester, approximately 12 weeks of gestational age, with exceptions for sexual assault, incest, and the life of the mother. The new amendment closely mirrors existing state law but allows the Legislature to impose stricter regulations, including a complete ban. Nebraskans rejected a competing measure that would have expanded abortion access to the point of fetal viability.
School Choice Measure Rejected
Voters rejected Legislative Bill 1402, a program offering $10 million annually for private school “education scholarships.” The measure replaced a prior law that provided tax credits for such scholarships but expired in October. Advocates for school choice have pledged to revisit the issue in future legislative sessions, though the leadership on this front remains uncertain.
Paid Sick Leave Coming in 2025
Nebraska voters also approved the Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, mandating paid sick leave for workers starting October 1, 2025. Under the new law, employees will earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. Small businesses must offer up to 40 hours annually, while larger businesses must provide up to 56 hours. The Nebraska Department of Labor will draft additional regulations to support the policy.
Despite the success, supporters of the measure anticipate challenges during the upcoming legislative session, as any attempt to amend the law would require a two-thirds majority. Advocates remain steadfast in defending the nearly 75% voter approval for the policy.
These developments mark a significant shift in Nebraska’s policies, reflecting the evolving priorities of its voters.
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