Bismarck, ND – July 8th, 2024 – Earlier today, New Economic Frontier submitted 22,444 signatures to the North Dakota Secretary of State’s office, aiming to qualify their adult-use cannabis initiative for the November 2024 ballot.
The initiative seeks to create a legal framework for the cultivation, processing, and sale of adult-use cannabis to those 21 and over in North Dakota. Voter approval would bring new jobs, additional tax revenue, and strict regulations to protect public safety.
Steve Bakken, chairperson of New Economic Frontier, shared:
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made this initiative possible. North Dakotans really stepped up to support this cause – from the businesses that offered their support, to the dedicated circulators who braved all kinds of weather, to every single person who took the time to sign. People are ready for a common-sense approach to cannabis. This isn’t just about changing laws – it’s about creating opportunities and bringing our communities together.”
The initiative needed 15,582 valid signatures to qualify for the ballot. New Economic Frontier’s submission of over 22,000 signatures significantly exceeds this requirement, demonstrating robust grassroots support for the measure.
Jake Mittelsteadt, ballot measure committee member, shared:
“We didn’t just meet the requirement, we blew past it and that’s no accident. We wanted to send a clear message that North Dakota is ready for this change. Even if some signatures don’t make the cut, we’re confident voters will have their say come November. And while some have raised concerns about the measure not addressing specific tax laws, it’s important to understand that those details are the legislature’s responsibility, not ours. Our job is to bring this issue to the ballot, letting North Dakotans decide on the principle.”
If passed by voters in November, the initiative would conservatively permit up to seven manufacturing facilities and eighteen dispensaries across North Dakota. It includes provisions for secure tracking systems, stringent quality control testing, and strict limits on purchase amounts, also addressing impaired driving and workplace safety issues.
The initiative could significantly boost the state’s revenue. The tax income generated could fund program administration and other vital citizen needs, as determined by the legislature.
For more information about the initiative and New Economic Frontier’s mission, visit www.neweconomicfrontier.com.