Wisconsin senator launches petition to legalize cannabis

In Wisconsin, Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard is scrambling to push the GOP-controlled legislature to hold a hearing on her cannabis legalization bill.

Despite the popularity of cannabis legalization in Wisconsin, Republican lawmakers have yet to schedule a public hearing, prompting Senator Agard to launch an online petition to rally public support.

Senator Agard calls for public hearing

Senator Melissa Agard, a staunch supporter of cannabis reform, recently circulated an online petition urging the GOP-controlled legislature to hold a public hearing on her bill to legalize cannabis. The petition highlights the disconnect between legislators and the will of the people, stating, «Republicans cannot continue to ignore the will of the people and must hear the voice of Wisconsinites!».

The Agard's bill on the legalization of cannabis includes a series of provisions aimed at creating a regulated and equitable cannabis industry in Wisconsin. Adults aged 21 and over would be allowed to possess up to five ounces of cannabis (140 grams) for personal use and grow up to 12 plants.

The bill calls for an excise tax of 15% on cannabis producers and 10% on retailers and lounges, with medical cannabis patients exempt from the tax. 60% of the tax revenue generated would be earmarked for a community reinvestment grant fund, supporting initiatives for women and minority participation in the industry, healthcare equity and law enforcement training to combat driving under the influence of cannabis.

Obstacles in Wisconsin's legislative landscape

Despite the compelling case for legalization, Wisconsin's Republican leaders have been reluctant to advance meaningful cannabis reform. The GOP-controlled legislature has already voted to remove cannabis reform language from Governor Tony Evers' budget request. While there has been discussion of limited medical cannabis legislation, no official bill has yet been introduced.

GOP Senator Mary Felzkowski criticized Democrats like Agard, arguing that their advocacy of full legalization distracts from reform efforts. However, as the Minority Leader points out, Republicans hold majorities in both chambers, giving them the power to push forward the reform of their choice.

As part of the legislative process, the Wisconsin Department of Finance released a fiscal estimate that Agard reform would generate nearly $170 million in tax revenue annually, in addition to creating jobs and new opportunities for Wisconsin farmers and communities.