Going Global

Navigating the Murky Waters of Minnesota Marijuana

Still in flux, the sometimes conflicting regulatory framework of the cannabis industry in Minnesota is unlike any other.

Published

2 years ago

November 22, 2022

Global Cannabis Times Staff

The cannabis industry in Minnesota is unlike any other. Although it has legalized medical marijuana, that industry is considered by many to be one of the most conservative in the country. In July 2022, the Minnesota legislature legalized hemp-infused Delta-9 THC edibles and beverages without requiring any licensing framework for manufacturers and retailers of these products. As a result, the current state of cannabis in Minnesota is complete flux and this videocast discusses with Chris Tholkes, Director of Minnesota’s Office of Medical Cannabis, the past, present and future of cannabis in Minnesota.

About Chris Tholkes:
Chris Tholkes brings over 25 years experience working in the public, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors. She is currently the Director for the Office of Medical Cannabis at the Minnesota Department of Health and sits on the board of the Cannabis Regulators Association. Previously, she served as Assistant Division Director for the Office of Statewide Health Improvement Initiatives, which includes the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP), Tobacco Use Prevention Grants and Tribal Grants. Additional experience includes serving as a Program Officer for Otto Bremer Foundation, a staff lobbyist and Senior Policy Manager for ClearWay Minnesota, and as Director of Tobacco Control for the American Lung Association of Minnesota. She holds a master’s in public administration from Hamline University.

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