Nebraska hearing draws sharp criticism and praise over governor’s medical cannabis commission nominees

Nebraska General Affairs Committee members heard confirmation testimony today on two gubernatorial appointments to the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission amid strong public reaction.

The hearing centered on Laurel Muting, prevention director at Heartland Family Service, and Dr. Monica Oldenburg, an anesthesiologist practicing in Nebraska. Supporters and opponents filled the hearing room and submitted written comments, framing the session as a test of whether appointees opposed to earlier legalization efforts should implement the program voters approved.

The issue matters because the five‑member commission will write rules for registration, manufacture, distribution and dispensing of medical cannabis — decisions that will determine patient access and how the new market operates. Opponents argued the governor’s choices risk delaying or obstructing access; supporters said the nominees bring relevant experience.

Christa Eggers, representing Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, told the committee she found it “insulting that individuals with a long and public history opposing such access are being considered for the roles that will determine how this policy is implemented.” Eggers urged the committee to “reject both of these appointments,” citing prior testimony by the nominees opposing legalization.

Several patient advocates and family members gave personal testimony. Shelly Gillen, a mother of a child with severe seizures, said appointees “want to see it fail.” Morgan Ryan, who described living with chronic pain, told senators she found the nominees’ past opposition “insulting” to voters who supported the measure.

By contrast, Sheriff Greg London of Sarpy County urged confirmation of Laurel Muting, calling her “a person of integrity and character, and I think she’s perfect for this board.” Heartland Family Service chief operating officer Mary O'Neil, who also testified in support, said Muting “will work diligently to design rules that meet the intent of the act and the best interest of all Nebraskans.” Maggie Ballard, a colleague, similarly urged committee members to judge Muting by her experience and collaborative approach.

A range of other invited witnesses testified both for and against the appointments, including legal and public‑health perspectives and a statewide public‑opinion poll from a private firm that found most respondents want commissioners free of personal bias.

No formal committee votes were taken during the hearing. The committee record will include the oral testimony and dozens of written comments submitted for the record.

Questions from committee members focused on whether nominees could separate past public positions from the regulatory role and on the commission’s authority to address matters such as allowable product forms, patient eligibility and licensing.

The hearing concluded with public testimony from dozens of Nebraskans and invited witnesses; the committee did not announce next steps or a date for final action on the confirmations.