Marijuana. Cannabis. Weed. Hashish. Dope. Mary Jane.
It’s known by many names, but it all means (basically) the same thing. Marijuana is fully legal in 16 states plus Washington D.C., with New Mexico recently becoming the 17th state to pass a measure to legalize it in April. It’s at least partially legal in all but six states including Wisconsin, where CBD oil is the only legalized form.
Marijuana legalization is a highly popular issue in today’s political world, with fewer than 10% of Americans believing it should be illegal in all forms. A 2019 Marquette Law School poll found that 83% of Wisconsinites support the legalization of medical marijuana.
Not only is marijuana legalization widely popular, but it’s also highly profitable. According to research, Wisconsin would rake in approximately $167 million in tax revenue by legalizing and taxing marijuana sales in the state. Illinois made nearly $30 million last year, but its maximum potential is about $277 million.
In addition to the financial benefits of marijuana legalization, there are also racial justice benefits.
Lieutenant Gov. Mandela Barnes said in a statement, “Black Wisconsinites are over four times more likely to be convicted for marijuana possession. By ending marijuana prohibition, we can begin to undo the failed drug policies that have disproportionately harmed communities of color in our state and across the country.”
While Gov. Tony Evers and Democrats in Wisconsin have pushed for the legalization of marijuana for several years, Republicans continue to oppose these measures. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, said in April that no measures for recreational or medical marijuana legalization would be passed this session.
LeMahieu’s argument is that legalization needs to be done at the federal level rather than the state level. But legalizing marijuana is a no-brainer at this point, as neighboring states like Illinois and Michigan have already started reaping the benefits of legalization.
In the mean time, make sure to get your CBD water from your local Woodman’s today!
