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Will Wisconsin Marijuana Be Legalized in 2025?

Christopher D.

Updated: 2 days ago


Wisconsin is one of the few remaining states without any form of marijuana legalization, standing apart from neighboring states like Michigan, Illinois, and Minnesota that have embraced both medical and recreational marijuana programs. 


As the year goes on, the possibility of medical marijuana legalization is back on the table, with lawmakers from both parties expressing interest in reform. However, significant policy disagreements among Republican leaders could once again stall progress. Here’s what you need to know about the ongoing debate and why medical marijuana is the right choice for Wisconsin.


The Current State of Marijuana Laws in Wisconsin

Wisconsin remains in a restrictive position regarding marijuana use. Neither medical nor recreational marijuana is currently legal, leaving residents without access to therapeutic marijuana treatments that have become standard in many other states. The state does allow CBD oil with low THC content for specific medical conditions, but this narrow allowance falls far short of a comprehensive medical marijuana program.


In 2024, Republican lawmakers introduced a restrictive medical marijuana bill that prohibited smokable marijuana and proposed state-run dispensaries. The proposal failed to gain traction, with criticism from both Democrats and Republican leaders in the Senate. This failure highlights the difficulty of finding consensus on marijuana policy in the state legislature.


The Push for Medical Marijuana Legalization

In 2025, there is renewed momentum to legalize medical marijuana in Wisconsin. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) has expressed support, calling medical marijuana a potential “godsend” for those in need. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg) has indicated that his caucus plans to introduce a new bill focused on strict guidelines for medical marijuana use.


Democratic leaders are also preparing to introduce a medical marijuana proposal. With recent gains in the legislature, Democrats are optimistic about the potential for bipartisan compromise. Senate Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein and Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer have emphasized the importance of meeting public demand, pointing to polls showing strong support for marijuana reform.


Public Support for Marijuana Legalization

Support for marijuana legalization is strong in Wisconsin. A Marquette University Law School poll found that 63% of respondents favor legalizing marijuana. This reflects a growing national trend, where the majority of Americans support medical and recreational marijuana legalization.


Wisconsin residents are increasingly vocal about the need for reform, especially as neighboring states provide clear examples of successful marijuana programs. The lack of legalization in Wisconsin has created a situation where patients often travel to other states to access medical marijuana, highlighting the urgent need for a local program.


Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice for Wisconsin

Medical marijuana could offer numerous benefits for patients with chronic and debilitating conditions. For Wisconsin, implementing a medical marijuana program would address critical healthcare needs while providing a controlled and regulated framework for access. It is known to alleviate symptoms of chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and cancer-related side effects, offering relief and improving quality of life for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.


Medical marijuana would also provide a safer, less addictive alternative to opioids and other prescription drugs, with fewer side effects. By offering a natural option, it could address the opioid crisis while expanding treatment possibilities. Beyond healthcare, legalization could generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and tax revenue, while reducing healthcare costs through affordable treatment options.


With strong public support, legalizing medical marijuana would reflect the will of Wisconsin residents and position the state as a leader in compassionate healthcare. If legalized in 2025, obtaining a medical marijuana card will be essential for legal access. A card will ensure legal protection, grants access to licensed dispensaries with regulated products, and provides personalized care through consultation with healthcare providers. Preparing for this process will enable patients to fully benefit from Wisconsin’s potential medical marijuana program.


Challenges to Legalization in 2025

While there is significant public and bipartisan support for medical marijuana, disagreements among Republican lawmakers could hinder progress. The debate over whether state-run or privately operated dispensaries should manage distribution has been a key sticking point. Additionally, some GOP leaders continue to express concerns about the potential for misuse and the need for strict regulations.


Senate Majority Leader LeMahieu has emphasized the importance of creating a tightly regulated program, but details about the proposed legislation remain unclear. Meanwhile, Assembly Speaker Vos has indicated he is open to compromise but is waiting to see the specifics of the Senate’s proposal.


These disagreements could delay or derail efforts to pass medical marijuana legislation this year, leaving patients and advocates frustrated.


The Role of Neighboring States

Wisconsin lags behind neighboring states like Michigan, Illinois, and Minnesota, where robust marijuana programs provide safe and effective treatments. This forces Wisconsin patients to seek care out of state.


Legalizing medical marijuana would bring relief to patients while keeping tax revenue and economic benefits within Wisconsin. Neighboring states show that a well-regulated program is both practical and successful.


Advocates continue to push lawmakers to prioritize patient needs and public demand, while Governor Tony Evers and Democratic leaders emphasize the economic and health benefits of legalization. With recent legislative gains, there’s hope for progress in 2025.


Summary

Will 2025 be the year Wisconsin legalizes medical marijuana? While public support and bipartisan interest provide reasons for optimism, disagreements among Republican lawmakers could stall progress once again.


For patients and advocates, the focus should remain on education, preparation, and persistence. Medical marijuana has the potential to transform healthcare in Wisconsin, providing relief for patients and addressing critical public health challenges. Obtaining a medical marijuana card will be key for patients once a program is implemented, ensuring legal access to safe and effective treatment.


As Wisconsin continues to debate this issue, the demand for reform is only growing. By prioritizing patient needs and building on the successes of neighboring states, Wisconsin has the opportunity to create a medical marijuana program that serves its residents and reflects the values of its communities. For now, advocates will keep pushing, and patients will keep hoping that 2025 brings the change they’ve been waiting 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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