Gov. Evers vows to sign medical marijuana bill with restrictions

 

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Gov. Tony Evers is vowing to sign legislation to legalize medical marijuana as momentum is building within the GOP-controlled Legislature to pass a bill this session after years of inaction.

Evers, who has long pushed for marijuana reform and legalizing cannabis for recreational use, told CBS 58 he would sign a bill that would create a medical marijuana program in Wisconsin despite previously expressing concerns that a measure proposed by Republicans was too restrictive.

"Do I think that recreational marijuana should be part of the conversation, yes," Evers said. "But let's start with medical and see what happens."

Last year, Evers also signaled he would sign medical marijuana legislation but said his main concern was "how restrictive it would be," during an interview with WISN.

But now, Evers said he would sign the proposal even if its "very regulated."

It comes after Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) said Republicans plan to unveil a proposal to legalize cannabis for medical purposes in January.

Vos suggested the measure would be similar to legislation introduced last session by Sen. Mary Felzkowski (R-Irma) that would have partially legalized medical cannabis in some forms such as oils, pills and other non-smokeable products.

It comes as there's renewed hope to legalize medical marijuana after Vos and Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu both signaled a bill could make it through their chambers.

Any bill proposed is unlikely to receive praise from a majority of Democrats who are opposed to restrictive marijuana laws and prefer measures to legalize cannabis for recreational use.

Statewide polling has shown broad support for a marijuana program. In August, 69% of registered voters in Wisconsin believe that cannabis should be legal, according to Marquette University Law School poll.

A similar poll from 2019 found 83% back legalizing medical marijuana.