Nebraska medical marijuana patients left without federal protections

OG article by Brenna Kiefner

February 17, 2026

Nebraska's medical marijuana patients and providers remain vulnerable to federal prosecution, as the state was omitted from a longstanding congressional amendment shielding state medical cannabis programs since 2014. Following 2024 voter legalization, Nebraska became the first excluded state, allowing potential DOJ and DEA interference despite state compliance, with cannabis still federally illegal. Advocates from Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana express deep frustration over the omission, attributed to state and federal officials. Patient Lia Post, using cannabis for pain, feels betrayed and fears arrest but continues advocacy. Executive director Crista Eggers calls it the "worst program" amid hostile opposition and delays, with only two cultivators approved and no dispensaries operational. She warns delays cost lives, as patients suffer while awaiting implementation. Federal protections won't revisit until next year. The situation highlights unique challenges in Nebraska's rollout, contrasting with protected programs elsewhere and underscoring ongoing tensions between state reforms and federal law.