Wisconsin Democrats announce marijuana legalization bill

OG article by Anya van Wagtendonk

February 4, 2026

Wisconsin Democrats announce marijuana legalization bill. Wisconsin Democrats introduced legislation for full recreational and medical marijuana legalization, including licensing for growers, processors, and retailers; regulated testing/distribution; and processes to review/expunge drug convictions, aiming to reduce incarceration (disproportionate in Black and brown communities) and boost the economy. Rep. Darrin Madison emphasized arrests don't improve safety but limit opportunities. Business owner Mike Sickler noted existing infrastructure, workforce, and market could transition to regulation, retaining revenue instead of losing it to neighboring states. Polls show majority support across parties. However, Republican-controlled Legislature has rejected prior efforts and Gov. Evers' budget inclusions, focusing only on limited medical programs. Amid federal hemp loophole closure, bipartisan bills target hemp regulation (e.g., three-tier system or safety standards for low-dose THC products). Legalization remains unlikely soon.