ND | MIDWEST
North Dakota
TLDR
North Dakota has medical marijuana (since 2016) with a recently expanded program including edibles (HB 1203). Recreational narrowly defeated in 2024 with 47.45% support, suggesting eventual passage — likely on 2028 ballot. Small possession decriminalized. Hemp products available but face federal ban threat.
Legal Status at a Glance
Regulatory Body
North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Official Website →Licensing: Medical only — Compassionate Care Act; recreational defeated 2024 (47.45% yes)
Key Legislation
Compassionate Care Act — Medical Marijuana
Legalized medical marijuana. Patients may possess up to 3 oz with qualifying conditions.
Medical Cannabinoid Edible Products
Legalized cannabinoid edible products for medical marijuana patients, expanding access beyond flower and concentrates.
Adult-Use Legalization
Adult-use legalization defeated 47.45% to 52.55% in November 2024. Narrow margin suggests shifting public sentiment.
Current Events (2025-2026)
- ●Narrow defeat of recreational Measure 5 (47.45% yes in 2024) suggests shifting public sentiment
- ●HB 1203 expanded medical program to include edibles — effective August 2025
- ●Possession of < 14g (0.5 oz) for persons 21+ decriminalized as civil infraction
- ●No new legalization initiative filed for 2026 as of current date — expected to return in 2028
- ●Federal hemp ban will affect hemp-derived products currently available in North Dakota market
History Highlights
2016: Initiated Measure 5 — medical marijuana legalized (Compassionate Care Act)
2024: Recreational Measure 5 narrowly defeated (47.45% yes vs 52.55% no)
2025: HB 1203 expands medical program to include cannabinoid edibles (effective Aug 1)
How This Connects to Our Policy
ACFA Section 6 (Fiscal Impact) — fiscal arguments could push ND over the line given the narrow 2024 defeat. TTSA Section 1 (Voter Mandate) — 47.45% support demonstrates growing consensus. ACFA Section 8 (Patient Access) — HB 1203 edibles expansion shows incremental progress.
References & Sources
- North Dakota MPP Overview →
- North Dakota HHS Medical Marijuana →
- Measure 5 (2024) — Ballotpedia →
- HB 1203 — ND Legislature →
Last verified: 2026-04-02. Not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
Community Input
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