DES MOINES, Iowa (KWQC) – Gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand announced his plan to legalize cannabis for adult use in Iowa Monday.
Sand’s plan would legalize and regulate cannabis for adults, similar to alcohol, according to a campaign news release.
“Right now, Iowans are driving across state lines — and taking their tax dollars with them — to make these purchases,“ Sand said in his campaign release. ”That’s revenue we’re losing that should be staying right here in Iowa. And we shouldn’t be using our tax dollars to lock people up for three hots and a cot for using cannabis in 2026.”
The campaign said the plan would prioritize grow licenses for small and mid-size family farms, lift the ban on consumable hemp products and set rules for cannabis products, including:
The campaign said it expects the plan would create jobs and expand opportunities for small business owners across the state.
In Iowa recreational use of marijuana is illegal, and first-offense possession is a misdemeanor crime. Iowa also has a Medical Cannabis Program.
Gov. Kim Reynolds is not running for governor in 2026. Sand, who is Iowa Auditor, is the only Democrat running. Republicans who will face off in the primary include Randy Feenstra, a U.S. representative; Zach Lahn a businessman/farmer; Eddie Andrews, a state representative; Brad Sherman, former state representative/pastor; and Adam Steen, former Department of Administrative Services director.
Copyright 2026 KWQC. All rights reserved.