Metrc in Minnesota 101
Metrc is the official statewide track-and-trace system for Minnesota's statewide cannabis programs.
In May 2014, Minnesota launched its medical marijuana program, permitting cannabis for specific severe medical conditions under strict regulations. Despite its restrictive nature, the program expanded over time to include more qualifying conditions.
In early 2023, an adult-use bill was introduced. After legislative approval, Governor Walz signed HF 100 into law on May 30, 2023, making Minnesota is the 23rd state in the nation to legalize cannabis use for people 21 and older. Also, the law created the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), tasked with licensing cannabis and hemp businesses and overseeing a legal recreational market, as well as the existing medical cannabis and hemp-derived markets.
Minnesota lawmakers have expedited the state's adult-use cannabis bill, allowing the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to start issuing license pre-approvals this summer. The application period will be open for only 19 days, from July 24 to August 12, 2024. This expedited process aims to support social equity applicants by enabling cannabis cultivators to start growing commercial crops later this year and allowing dispensaries to gain pre-approval to begin operations in January 2025.
Approved Minnesota cannabis license holders will need to implement and stay compliant with Metrc.
