Governor of Wisconsin Announces Proposal to Decriminalize Marijuana Possession and Legalize Medical Use

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced Monday a proposal to revamp state marijuana laws, legalize the medical use of drugs, decriminalize possession and align state laws with CBD oil with federal standards.

At a press conference presenting his state's budget, the governor said that it was time for Wisconsin to join more than two dozen states that legalized marijuana for medical purposes and have ensured that residents have access to CBD oil.

"As a cancer survivor, I know that the side effects of a serious illness can make everyday tasks difficult," said the governor at a news conference. "People should not be treated like criminals for having access to a drug they desperately need." their suffering. "

But Evers also said that this proposal is not a strict answer to health problems. He also highlighted the inequalities in the arrests of minorities for drug-related crimes.

"Wisconsin has the country's highest incarceration rate for black men, and drug-related crimes account for up to 75-85% of all inmates in our prisons," Evers said. in a press release.

In his proposal, the governor also outlined his plan to decriminalize the possession, production or distribution of marijuana in quantities of 25 grams or less. The proposal would also erase the records of people already convicted of violating this amount who have served their sentence or probation.

This specific language was put in place to prevent state law enforcement agencies from creating their own orders or sanctions.

"Too many people, often people of color, spend time in our criminal justice system just to own small amounts of marijuana," said Evers. "It does not make our communities stronger or safer."

The governor also said he wants to align state laws on cannabidiol, also called CBD oil, on federal standards. Laws in the state require doctors to give families a certificate every year to have access to CBD oil.

Some believe that the oil, which comes from hemp and marijuana plants, helps to reduce anxiety and manage pain.

According to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Legislation, only 14 of the 33 states that have legalized the use of marijuana for medical purposes have promulgated explicit health laws under the CBD .

President Donald Trump paved the way for fashionable oil after signing an agriculture bill in December – removing industrial hemp from a list of federally controlled substances. This legislation has become a major step in pushing oil into everyday use.

Although the CBD oil industry has exploded, some states are receding. The New York City Department of Health recently announced a plan to fine businesses that continue to offer cannabidiol-containing foods or beverages.