On Tuesday, House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) and Senator Jeff Hayden (DFL-Minneapolis) announced a new plan to bring forward legislation in 2020 that would legalize recreational marijuana in Minnesota.

Following the announcement Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen (R-Alexandria) released the following statement:

“Minnesota Democrats continue to send a mixed message to Minnesotans on the impact of substance use in our state. At a time when Democrats are calling for Tobacco 21 and a crackdown on vaping, they are moving full steam ahead with legislation to legalize recreational marijuana, calling it a “top priority” this session.”

“As our state and nation continue to come to terms with an ongoing opioid crisis, how can Governor Walz and Democrat leadership honestly believe that recreational marijuana will not have a negative impact across our communities?”

“Have they not seen the statistics? Do they not care to acknowledge the residual consequences that have occurred in Colorado, Washington, and other states that have rushed forward to legalize recreational marijuana?”

“What exactly are their answers to the increased consumption by teens, more DUI traffic accidents, higher abuse rates of alcohol and other drugs, or a startling rise in mental health issues and suicides?”

“To make this dangerous legislation a top priority is a misguided step by Democrats of this state. Rather than focus on something with so many question marks Democrats should work across the aisle and focus on securing our shared priorities, such as reducing the cost of health care, cracking down on government fraud and failure, and improving our education and infrastructure as Minnesota kicks off the new decade.”