As more and more states across the nation adopt compassionate medical marijuana programs, the pressure is mounting for Wisconsin to reevaluate its steadfast prohibition stance. Recent developments such as the proposed federal rescheduling of marijuana have reignited hopes that 2024 could bring meaningful progress on this issue within the Badger State.
Under existing Wisconsin statutes, all marijuana use, including possession of small amounts, remains strictly illegal for any purpose. The state's hardline approach treats marijuana essentially the same as far more dangerous substances.
This uncompromising position has faced increasing criticism from civil rights advocates who argue the enforcement unnecessarily criminalizes and incarcerates minority communities at disproportionate rates over a substance scientifically proven to be safer than legal alcohol or tobacco.
Limited CBD Access
Wisconsin does allow limited use of CBD products derived from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC. However, these low-potency oils and tinctures provide virtually no therapeutic benefit for patients suffering from serious, debilitating medical conditions like cancer, chronic pain, or seizure disorders.
The proposed rescheduling of marijuana by federal agencies from Schedule I to Schedule III has emboldened both Democratic and Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin to revisit comprehensive medical marijuana legislation.
"For years, those opposed have hidden behind the flimsy excuse that we couldn't act until the federal government reclassified cannabis," stated Senator Melissa Agard. "Well, that hurdle has now been cleared, so there's no longer any justification for obstructing reform that the vast majority of Wisconsinites want."
Economic Opportunities
Proponents argue that a tightly regulated medical marijuana program provides immense economic opportunities across multiple sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and tourism; potentially generating hundreds of millions annually in new tax revenues.
Additionally, provisions could be enacted to reinvest portions of these new marijuana taxes back into communities most impacted by the generational harms of the drug war through expungement initiatives, job training programs, small business funds, and community revitalization efforts.
"Make no mistake, this is both a moral and fiscal issue," stated Sen. Agard. "Legalizing medical marijuana is quite simply the right, ethical, and economically prudent thing for Wisconsin to do."
Establishing Medical Marijuana Rules
If Wisconsin ultimately passes medical marijuana legislation, the state would likely establish a framework similar to those in other legal states. This would involve:
Defining a list of qualifying medical conditions for patient approval
Requiring doctor recommendations and issuing state ID cards
Licensing marijuana growers, processors, testing labs and dispensaries
Instituting product safety standards, labeling requirements and tracking
Advocates believe any legislation must also include provisions allowing some form of home cultivation for eligible patients, as well as workplace protections for legitimate medical marijuana consumption.
The Path Forward
While the proposed federal rescheduling serves as a fresh catalyst, the path to actualizing medical marijuana access in Wisconsin remains uncertain and riddled with political obstacles.
Republican leaders who currently control both legislative chambers have long resisted marijuana reform of any kind, voicing concerns over public safety risks and the purported immorality of moving toward outright legalization.
However, growing pressure from both their own constituents as well as members within the party who view regulated medical marijuana as an ethical, fiscal, and criminal justice imperative could slowly erode some of those long standing ideological barriers.
As the national landscape continues evolving and more medical research highlights cannabinoids' vast therapeutic potential, Wisconsin may eventually be compelled to evolve as well, prioritizing compassionate patient care over perpetuating an increasingly untenable policy of full prohibition.
Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in Wisconsin
Although medical marijuana is not yet legal in the State of Wisconsin, it will be soon! We are hopeful that progress will be made this upcoming session. In the meantime, contact your lawmakers and let them know you want medical marijuana in Wisconsin to help the process along!
Marijuana is a natural alternative medicine that has been in use for thousands of years for a variety of medical conditions and their symptoms. If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you will qualify for your medical card.
You should be ready for medical marijuana to come to Wisconsin. In order to do this, you can reserve an appointment with us today and we will schedule an appointment for you just as soon as the state’s medical program becomes operational.
You’ll meet with your new doctor virtually, using your smartphone, tablet, or computer for a telemedicine appointment. Together you’ll discuss your conditions, whether you qualify for a Wisconsin Marijuana Card, and what medical marijuana might be able to do for you, all without even leaving your home! And you’ll even save $25 off the cost of your evaluation!
In the meantime, check back to our blogs and subscribe to our newsletter for updates on Wisconsin’s program! It is so important to stay informed on this issue if you are hoping to get your medical card as soon as possible.
The wait is almost over! We hope to see you soon!
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