Wisconsin remains one of the few states without a legal medical marijuana program, despite overwhelming public support for legalization. As neighboring states like Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota have embraced medical and recreational marijuana, Wisconsin continues to lag behind, leaving patients without access to a regulated medical marijuana program.
In 2024, legislative discussions about medical marijuana gained traction in the Wisconsin State Legislature, with Assembly Republicans proposing a restrictive state-run dispensary model. However, disagreements with Senate Republicans and opposition from key lawmakers have stalled progress. Meanwhile, Democratic Governor Tony Evers has consistently pushed for broader legalization, including a pathway for Wisconsin voters to place binding referendums on ballots.
The Case for Medical Marijuana in Wisconsin
1. Public Support for Legalization
Polling data from the Marquette Law School Poll consistently shows that Wisconsinites favor medical marijuana legalization. In 2024, 86% of respondents supported legalizing marijuana for medical use, a number that reflects a broad consensus across party lines. Despite this widespread support, legislative inaction has kept Wisconsin behind the national trend.
2. Patients Need Safe and Legal Access
Without a medical marijuana program, Wisconsin patients suffering from chronic pain, epilepsy, PTSD, and other debilitating conditions are forced to seek alternative treatments, some of which may be less effective or carry undesirable side effects. Many patients resort to traveling to Illinois or Michigan to obtain medical marijuana legally, but this creates additional financial and logistical burdens.
3. The Economic Benefits of a Regulated Market
Medical marijuana programs generate substantial tax revenue and create jobs. States like Illinois and Michigan have reaped the economic benefits of legalization, with millions in tax revenue reinvested into public health and infrastructure. Wisconsin is missing out on this potential economic boost while residents continue to spend money in neighboring states.
Hemp-Derived THC Products
While traditional marijuana remains illegal in Wisconsin, the state allows certain hemp-derived THC products like Delta-8, Delta-9 (from hemp), and THC-A. While these alternatives provide some access to THC, they lack regulatory oversight and consistency, leaving many patients skeptical of their safety and effectiveness. This reinforces the need for a structured medical marijuana program that ensures reliable, high-quality products for those in need.
Despite strong public support, Republican lawmakers have largely opposed legalization, fearing it could lead to full recreational use. A state-run dispensary proposal by Assembly Republicans faced Senate opposition, causing legislative gridlock and halting any real progress.
Governor Tony Evers has repeatedly pushed for legalization, only to have his proposals blocked by the Republican-controlled Legislature. In 2025, he is shifting his approach by advocating for a binding referendum that would allow voters to decide on medical marijuana legalization. However, this move still requires legislative approval, which remains unlikely due to partisan opposition.
Some lawmakers continue to hesitate due to marijuana’s federal Schedule I classification, arguing it could lead to legal conflicts. However, as more states legalize and federal discussions on rescheduling continue, this argument is losing traction. With neighboring states already allowing legal marijuana, pressure on Wisconsin to follow suit is only growing.
Why You Should Get a Medical Marijuana Card (When Available)
Though Wisconsin doesn’t yet have a medical marijuana program, preparing for legalization now can be beneficial. Once established, a medical marijuana card will provide legal protection, safer products, and cost savings for qualifying patients.
A key advantage is legal protection. In states with medical programs, medical cardholders are protected from possession-related charges. If Wisconsin legalizes medical marijuana, having a state-issued card will ensure compliance with the law. Another benefit is access to medical-grade products. Unlike unregulated hemp-based THC, medical marijuana is lab-tested for quality and potency, ensuring safer and more effective treatment.
Finally, medical marijuana programs offer more treatment options, including high-CBD strains, tinctures, and topicals, which may not be available in recreational markets. These specialized products help patients manage chronic pain, anxiety, and neurological disorders more effectively.
What’s Next for Medical Marijuana in Wisconsin?
As we move further into 2025, Wisconsin’s medical marijuana debate remains at a standstill, but public pressure continues to mount. With an overwhelming majority of residents supporting legalization and neighboring states reaping the benefits of medical marijuana programs, Wisconsin lawmakers will need to address the issue sooner rather than later.
Governor Evers’ push for referendums could be a game-changer, but it will require legislative support to become a reality. Meanwhile, lawmakers must bridge their differences and find a compromise that prioritizes patient needs over political agendas.
For Wisconsinites who support medical marijuana, staying engaged in the legislative process is crucial. Contacting local representatives, attending public hearings, and voting for candidates who support medical marijuana legalization can help push the state in the right direction.
The future of medical marijuana in Wisconsin remains uncertain, but with continued advocacy and public support, the Badger State may finally join the growing list of states offering legal access to medical marijuana. Until then, Wisconsin patients are left waiting, hoping that 2025 will bring the change they’ve long been fighting for.
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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