Cannabis in the Cornhusker State: What You Need to Know about Nebraska’s Medical Cannabis Law and Licensing Opportunities

By David M. Ullian

Jul 21, 2025

It’s been a long road, but Nebraska has officially joined the majority of states that have a regulated medical cannabis program. After voters approved two ballot measures legalizing the medical use of cannabis in November 2024, the state has been working towards adopting a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for patients, caregivers and cannabis businesses. On June 29, 2025, the Governor signed off on regulations implementing Nebraska’s new medical program, and soon, businesses will have the opportunity to apply for licenses to operate registered cannabis establishments.

Here’s a high-level overview of Nebraska’s new medical cannabis law and licensing opportunities.

Who Will Govern The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Program?

The medical cannabis program is governed by:

• Medical Cannabis Patient Protection Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 71-24,103–105)

• Medical Cannabis Regulation Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 71-24,106–111)

• NMCC Emergency Regulations (238 Neb. Admin. Code ch. 1), effective from June 29 to September 28, 2025

The newly created Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission (NMCC) has exclusive authority over the medical cannabis program, including licensing and regulation of cannabis establishments. The NMCC consists of the three members of the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission, and up to two additional members may be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Nebraska State Legislature.

Patient and Caregiver Access to Medical Cannabis

Qualified patients with a written recommendation from a licensed healthcare provider may purchase up to five ounces of medical cannabis and accessories from licensed dispensaries. Under current law, there are no specific qualifying medical conditions (such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain) that individuals must have in order to be eligible to obtain a written recommendation and patient registration. Still, we anticipate that qualifying medical conditions will eventually be adopted by statute and/or regulation.  

Registered caregivers are also permitted to acquire and provide cannabis to patients.

What Cannabis Products Are Permitted?

Permissible cannabis products that may be produced and sold to patients include: 

• Oral tablets, capsules, tinctures

• Gelatinous cubes or lozenges (non-sugarcoated)

• Topicals (gels, creams, oils)

• Suppositories

• Transdermal patches

• Nebulizer or inhaler-administered liquids

However, smokable, vapable, edible, and flavored products are prohibited, as are products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids like delta-8 and delta-10 THC.

What Types of Cannabis Licenses Will Be Available? 

The law establishes five types of licensed cannabis establishments:

1. Cultivators

2. Product Manufacturers

3. Dispensaries

4. Transporters

5. Testing Facilities

Notably, vertical integration is prohibited, meaning no single entity can hold more than one type of license. Additionally, dispensary licenses are limited to one per District Court Judicial District in the state, ensuring geographic distribution and capping dispensary licenses at no more than 12.

General Cannabis License Application Requirements

At a minimum, applicants for all cannabis establishment license types must:

• Disclose the name and address of the applicant and all officers, directors, or managers

• Disclose the location and ownership of the proposed licensed premises

• Provide certification of approval by local government bodies that the proposed establishment meets all applicable local requirements

• Satisfy residency, citizenship, and background suitability requirements

• Complete fingerprinting for every person included in the application.

Residency and Citizenship Requirements

At least 51% of ownership must be comprised of Nebraska residents who have resided in the state for at least the four preceding years and are U.S. citizens.

Location Requirements

Cannabis business cannot be located within 1,000 feet of schools, daycares, churches, or hospitals. Additionally, a licensee cannot relocate their business from the location specified in the license.  

What’s Next? The Regulatory Timeline

By law, the NMCC had a deadline of July 1, 2025, to finalize initial regulations and application criteria for the licensing of cannabis establishments, and the NMCC must begin issuing licenses and registrations by October 1, 2025.

Final Thoughts

Nebraska’s conservative but structured approach to medical cannabis reflects a strong emphasis on public safety, patient access, and regulatory oversight. As the NMCC begins issuing licenses later this year, patients and entrepreneurs alike should prepare by understanding the law’s requirements and restrictions.

Stay tuned for updates as the program continues to roll out. If you’re considering applying for a license, now is the time to get informed and ready.

Vicente LLP’s cannabis licensing team has an unparalleled track record of success when it comes to helping clients obtain licenses to operate. If you are interested in applying for licensure, contact us today! From forming your business, strategic planning and crafting a strong application, to finding suitable real estate, Vicente LLP is here to help you achieve your goals in this new market.