Is Weed Still Illegal?

Yes, weed is still illegal. However, Governor Tony Evers is pushing to legalize the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana in Wisconsin. He recently announced that this initiative would be included in the 2021-2023 budget. According to Evers, most Wisconsinites support the legalization of weed. He cited a Marquette University study that showed six in 10 Wisconsinites support the legalization of recreational marijuana use, and 83% support legalizing cannabis for medicinal purposes. 

The Proposed Weed Rules

In the plan, Evers proposed the following:

·        Only individuals who are 21 years old and up can purchase marijuana.

·        Wisconsinites would be legally allowed to have in their possession two ounces of weed and not more than six plants, which are only allowed for personal use.

·        Non-residents could only possess up to a quarter-ounce of marijuana.

The Big Money Question

So where will the money go? Evers is giving the responsibility of regulating and taxing the cannabis industry to the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) as well as the Department of Revenue (DOR). Legalizing and taxing weed in the state will ensure product safety and a controlled market for both medicinal and recreational users of marijuana. Additionally, legalization will help create more job opportunities and increase revenue.

According to estimates by the Evers administration, legalization could bring in about $165 million in revenue yearly, beginning at the proposed budget’s second year. The governor also adds that approximately half of the money would be used for a community reinvestment fund and that $34 million would be utilized for supporting rural school districts.

Weed Laws in Wisconsin

Currently, both medicinal and recreational cannabis are still not legal in the state. However, individuals with approved medical conditions can legally use and possess cannabinoids or CBD oil in certain amounts. A first offense of marijuana possession is classified as a misdemeanor, but subsequent offenses may be classified as felonies. This could mean imprisonment and costly fines. Offenders of minor possession can be penalized with a fine in the cities of Eau Claire, Superior, Madison, and Milwaukee.

Last year, however, the Madison Common Council approved the decriminalization of possessing and using marijuana in the city. The rules included allowing individuals who are 18 years old and above to possess or use not more than 28 grams of marijuana on private and public property, provided that they’ve been given permission by the tenant, landlord, or property owner. Also, smoking weed is still illegal on Capitol or state-owned grounds and anywhere else where smoking tobacco is illegal, such as on school buses or within 1,000 feet of schools.

Racial Disparities and Current Marijuana Laws

According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Wisconsin, the state’s current marijuana laws show racial inequalities. Based on a recent report, the Union found that Black people are approximately four times more likely to be arrested for possession of weed than white people. It commended the governor’s proposal, calling it a crucial step towards racial equality in the state.

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