In the fight to legalize medical marijuana, tribal leaders in Wisconsin have taken a bold stance, spearheading efforts to bring this much-needed medicine to the state. For years, Wisconsin has remained one of the few states where marijuana, both medical and recreational, remains illegal.
There is clearly growing support for medical marijuana legalization, with tribal communities playing a significant role in advocating for change. These leaders, alongside activists and state officials, are pushing for policies that would allow individuals to access medical marijuana, especially for those dealing with chronic pain, PTSD, and other debilitating conditions.
The Growing Momentum for Legalization
The movement for medical marijuana in Wisconsin has gained considerable momentum, largely thanks to Indigenous-led initiatives. Rob Pero, founder of the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association and owner of Canndigenous, a Wisconsin-based company specializing in hemp-derived CBD products, has been vocal about the urgent need for medical marijuana legalization. Speaking at a recent press conference at the Wisconsin Capitol, Pero emphasized that Wisconsin remains “stuck in the middle of a prohibition island” while neighboring states have legalized marijuana in some form.
Pero's frustration is shared by many Wisconsinites who, in search of relief, are forced to travel to nearby states where medical marijuana is legal. For them, the need for medical marijuana is not just about policy, it’s about survival, health, and overall well-being.
Wisconsin Wellness Campaign
To drive the conversation forward, tribal leaders and advocates have launched a public awareness campaign called Wisconsin Wellness. This Indigenous-led effort aims to educate the public about the benefits of medicinal marijuana and push for policy changes that would allow its legalization. According to Kristin White Eagle, a representative for the Ho-Chunk Nation and a director of Wisconsin Wellness, it’s long overdue for Wisconsin to embrace medical marijuana: “It’s time to end prohibition and allow people who need this medicine to access it legally.”
The campaign focuses not only on the benefits of medical marijuana but also on how it can improve the lives of veterans, individuals with chronic pain, and other vulnerable populations who could greatly benefit from alternative treatments like marijuana.
Why Wisconsin Needs It
Medical marijuana has been proven to provide relief for a wide range of conditions, including PTSD, epilepsy, cancer-related symptoms, chronic pain, and severe nausea. While pharmaceutical options are available for these conditions, many patients find that marijuana offers a more natural, effective alternative with fewer side effects. This is one of many reasons why medical marijuana is the right choice for Wisconsin.
For veterans suffering from PTSD, medical marijuana can significantly reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and help manage symptoms. For patients with epilepsy, marijuana has shown to reduce the frequency of seizures. In many cases, medical marijuana has helped patients in other states reduce their reliance on addictive opioids or other harmful medications. This holistic approach to treatment aligns with the values of many Indigenous communities, which prioritize natural and plant-based healing methods.
Why You Need a Medical Marijuana Card
In states where medical marijuana is legal, a medical marijuana card is required to access marijuana legally. This card is issued to patients who have been diagnosed with qualifying conditions, such as chronic pain, cancer, or PTSD. For Wisconsin residents, obtaining a medical marijuana card, once legalization occurs, would provide numerous benefits:
Legal Access to Marijuana: Once Wisconsin launches a medical marijuana program, a medical card will allow you to purchase and consume safe cannabis products legally.
Medical-Grade Products: Medical marijuana dispensaries will offer products specifically tailored to medical patients, including tinctures, edibles, and oils. These products are regulated for quality, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment.
Better Health Outcomes: Medical marijuana has been shown to improve overall health and well-being, helping patients manage pain, improve sleep, and alleviate symptoms of chronic conditions.
Without legal access, Wisconsin residents are left to either suffer without relief or risk criminal charges by obtaining marijuana from neighboring states. The need for legalization is not just about convenience; it’s about providing necessary medical treatment to those who need it.
Public Support and Legislative Challenges
Public opinion in Wisconsin strongly favors the legalization of medical marijuana. According to surveys, 84% of Wisconsinites support medicinal marijuana, while 62% back full recreational legalization. In 2022, non-binding ballot initiatives in several Wisconsin communities overwhelmingly passed, with an average of 75% of voters supporting the legalization of marijuana statewide. Despite the overwhelming public support, the Wisconsin Legislature has been slow to act.
While bills to legalize medical marijuana have been introduced in past legislative sessions, they have consistently failed to gain traction. The most recent proposal, a highly restrictive Republican-backed bill, would have created a state-run medical marijuana program with limited access to dispensaries. Patients would only be able to obtain marijuana in non-smokable forms such as pills, tinctures, or edibles, and only for those with a qualifying condition.
This restrictive approach has frustrated advocates, who argue that the bill does not go far enough to meet the needs of Wisconsin patients. State Senator Melissa Agard, a longtime advocate for marijuana reform, has repeatedly introduced more comprehensive bills, but they have been blocked without public hearings.
The Financial Impact of Prohibition
In addition to the health benefits, legalizing medical marijuana would also have a significant financial impact on Wisconsin. Each year, the state loses an estimated $36 million in revenue as residents cross state lines to obtain medicinal marijuana from neighboring states. By legalizing and taxing marijuana, Wisconsin could generate substantial revenue to fund public health initiatives, education, and infrastructure projects.
Furthermore, legalization would create new business opportunities, especially for Native American communities, who have been at the forefront of the marijuana industry in other states. For example, the Ho-Chunk Nation has already decriminalized marijuana on their reservation, setting the stage for potential medical marijuana operations in the future.
Looking Ahead
The push for medical marijuana legalization in Wisconsin is not without its challenges, but the momentum is building. Tribal leaders, activists, and state legislators continue to push for a more compassionate and forward-thinking approach to marijuana. While the road to legalization may be long, there is hope that with continued advocacy and public pressure, Wisconsin will soon join the growing number of states that allow residents to access medical marijuana legally.
For now, the focus remains on raising awareness and educating others about the benefits of medical marijauna. With strong backing from Indigenous communities, veterans, and patients in need, Wisconsin is inching closer to a future where medical marijuana is a legal, accessible option for all.
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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