The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office filed an updated complaint on Friday in a legal case involving two successful medical cannabis measures. This new filing adds claims of fraud and misconduct related to the petition process for the cannabis measures.
However, Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong had already dismissed similar arguments last week, ruling in favor of the group behind the medical marijuana initiative, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana.
Although no formal appeal has been filed yet, Attorney General Mike Hilgers explained that they are making changes to the case based on the evidence presented in court. He described this as a routine post-trial motion to ensure the case is ready if they decide to appeal.
Judge Strong had previously questioned the credibility of the witness who claimed fraud in the petition process. She also rejected the idea that widespread fraud occurred, ruling that there wasn’t enough evidence to invalidate the petitions. The judge ruled that the petitions met all the legal requirements in Nebraska.
On Monday, Secretary of State Bob Evnen, along with other state officials, certified the results of the November election, including the cannabis measures. These measures are expected to take effect within 10 days after the Governor’s proclamation.
A hearing on the new complaint is set for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.