Nebraska Medical Cannabis Appointees Face Scrutiny Amid Partisan Debate
A Nebraska legislative committee advanced Gov. Jim Pillen’s appointees to the state’s Medical Cannabis Commission, but only one received a favorable recommendation. Dr. Monica Oldenburg, an anesthesiologist, was supported 5-2, while prevention specialist Lorelle Mueting split the committee 4-4. Both nominees will still go before the full Legislature, where they must secure 25 votes for confirmation.
The appointments follow the defeat of LB 677, a bill aimed at regulating medical cannabis more tightly and delaying its implementation. Critics, including patient advocates and pro-cannabis groups, accused Pillen of choosing appointees hostile to the voter-approved legalization measure. Oldenburg and Mueting have both previously opposed medical cannabis legislation.
Supporters say the appointees will help ensure cautious, research-based regulation. Critics argue their past opposition suggests they may obstruct patient access. Law enforcement officials and some colleagues defended Mueting’s integrity and qualifications, while opponents called for neutral or pro-implementation figures to lead the commission.
The commission holds exclusive regulatory authority and must finalize rules by July 1, with dispensary licensing potentially starting in October.
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