1. United States
2. Neb.
3. Letter

The appeal filed by John Kuehn challenges the successful ballot measures that legalized medical cannabis and created a regulatory framework in Nebraska. Despite Judge Susan Strong's ruling upholding the validity of the ballot petition signatures, Kuehn alleges there were insufficient valid signatures to qualify for the 2024 ballot. While the Nebraska Attorney General's Office initially joined Kuehn's lawsuit seeking to invalidate the measures, they cannot file a separate appeal now that Kuehn has appealed. With about 71% of Nebraskans voting in favor of legalizing medical cannabis and 67% approving regulation, there is clear public support for allowing physician-recommended use of up to 5 ounces of medical marijuana. The regulatory measure tasks the newly created Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission with licensing and overseeing a regulated medical cannabis program by specific deadlines. Nebraskans have spoken decisively through the democratic process to embrace medical cannabis as a legal treatment option. Upholding the will of the electorate is imperative for protecting citizen rights and maintaining trust in our system of government. An appeal that seeks to overturn legitimate ballot results undermines principles of direct democracy. The court should respect this clear mandate from Nebraska voters and allow the implementation of medical cannabis legalization and regulation to proceed accordingly.