Minnesota cannabis: Lower-potency edible license applications reopened

New cannabis rules proposed by lawmakers

Minnesota lawmakers are considering changes to cannabis and hemp business regulations this year that could impact the price and availability of cannabis products across Minnesota. FOX 9’s Corin Hoggard explains.

(FOX 9) - Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is once again opening the application window for hemp-derived THC business licenses, despite new rules and potential federal changes on the horizon.

Minnesota hemp edible business applications reopen

What we know:

The OCM has announced it is now accepting applications for lower-potency hemp edible (LPHE) retailer, manufacturer and wholesaler licenses.

The move follows the processing of more than 2,200 license applications since last October. There are already more than 1,500 licensed hemp-derived THC businesses operating in the state.

Business owners can apply, reapply, or update their licenses starting April 1, with the OCM saying it will review and issue licenses on a rolling basis.

Dig deeper:

The new licensing framework requires businesses to comply with updated rules for product testing, labeling and local registration, the OCM says.

Following the new window opening, OCM says it  expects "significant growth" in the coming months as more businesses receive licenses and begin operations.

What they're saying:

"We’re taking steps to ensure [businesses] can continue to prosper and participate in the marketplace selling products that consumers want," said Eric Taubel, OCM executive director. "It is an exciting time, but we also know that decisions at the federal level will potentially have significant impacts on Minnesota businesses."

Hemp product transition period ends

Why you should care:

Following the announcement, a transition period for manufacturers and wholesalers of hemp-derived products will end, meaning all businesses will now be required to operate under the same regulations that aim to "boost public health, safety, and consumer confidence," the OCM says.

A recent bill signed by Gov. Tim Walz allows hemp-derived THC products to be tested by out-of-state labs through May of next year, as long as those labs meet OCM criteria.

The change is expected to help businesses by reducing delays and freeing up in-state lab capacity.

Federal hemp law impact on Minnesota

Big picture view:

Last November, President Trump signed a spending bill that bans hemp-derived products containing more than .4 mg of THC, starting in November 2026.