Lawmakers prepare for debate on recreational marijuana in Minnesota

FALCON HEIGHTS (KMHL) – It looks like recreational marijuana use in Minnesota is set to be debated at the State Capitol in St. Paul.

Lawmakers are gearing up for a showdown on the issue. House Democrats are touring 15 communities around the state to build support for legalization of the drug. The first three stops are set for Duluth, Minneapolis and St. Cloud.

“We believe that Minnesota can have the best marijuana laws in the country,” said House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (D-Golden Valley) at the State Fair. “We think it’s vitally important that Minnesotans weigh in directly on this policy change.”

Gov. Tim Walz has said he’d support legislation. The governor has already ordered state agencies to prepare for the law change.

Senate Republicans remain opposed – Sen. Paul Gazelka (R-Nisswa) says the measure will die in the Senate.