Wisconsin Representatives Stand Up for Cannabis Decriminalization

Wisconsin legislators are beginning to push for cannabis decriminalization. Adam Jarchow, a Republican sate representative from Balsam Lake (a notoriously conservative part of the state) was urged by voters in his district to reconsider the state’s cannabis policy. He has joined three other representatives who are also pushing to get reform turned into law.

Currently, the first cannabis conviction for those possessing 10 grams or less carries up to $1,000 in fines and up to six months in jail. Any convictions after that become felonies. The new proposal would completely remove jail time or felony charges from the equation, and make the maximum fine for possessing cannabis $100. Nothing would change for those who possess 10 grams or more.

At a news conference, Jarchow announced his support in changing the state’s current rules. “If people in rural Northwestern Wisconsin in a conservative district think we need to change course, then maybe we do,” said Jarchow. “It seems to me to be pretty odd that possession of a couple joints could land you in jail or prison.”

However, despite the fact that Jarchow is now on board with the new regulation regardless of his Republican affiliation, the state still faces a lot of opposition from policymakers in the conservative state. The Senate Majority Leader has not yet shown any support for the measure, but the Assembly Speaker is open to medical cannabis and may be able to be swayed. Wisconsin’s Governor has expressed that he has no interest in legalizing medical cannabis, and is not expected to be supportive.

“I’m not naive to think that we are going to pass this and get it signed into law,” Jarchow admitted. He also said that he hopes the bill will at least start a conversation that will help push towards legalization.

Even with the obstacles ahead, there’s positive movement in the realm of medical cannabis for Wisconsin. Only a few months ago, the state approved medical cannabis use for children who suffer from seizures.