Wisconsin Republican leaders remain opposed to marijuana legalization despite moves by neighbors

In 2009, it looked like Wisconsin was going to be a leader in passing progressive marijuana legislation. Democrats controlled the Legislature and a bill that would have made Wisconsin the 15th state to legalize medical marijuana had the support of Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle. Polls showed wide public support.

But the bill died in committee when Democratic Rep. Julie Lassa voted with Republicans to tank it.

Nearly a decade later, Wisconsin remains on the sidelines, watching as Michigan and Illinois battle it out to see which state can attract marijuana tourists first.

During eight years of Republican control, marijuana legislation in the Badger State has gone nowhere. Meanwhile, 19 more states have legalized medical marijuana, for a total of 33. Ten states have legalized marijuana for recreational use, including Michigan, the first in the Midwest to do so.

Read more: https://madison.com/ct/news/local/govt-and-politics/wisconsin-republican-leaders-remain-opposed-to-marijuana-legalization-despite-moves/article_e6412b97-9d6e-59fa-895f-f326391efad1.html