MADISON, Wis. — A new bill introduced by Wisconsin Republican lawmakers is once again putting the spotlight on medical marijuana. The GOP is taking another swing at legalization after years of failed attempts, signaling a shift in how conservatives approach cannabis reform.
The bill, spearheaded by State Senator Patrick Testin (R–Stevens Point), Senate President Mary Felzkowski (R–Tomahawk), and State Rep. Patrick Snyder (R–Weston), aims to establish a structured medical marijuana program. Under the proposal, patients must receive a doctor’s diagnosis for serious conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, IBS, Parkinson’s, or chronic pain before registering with the new Office of Medical Cannabis Regulation.
This office, created by the bill, would oversee growers, processors, and product testing. Unlike past proposals, the new bill encourages private industry participation instead of relying on a state-run model. GOP leaders say this approach could help build broader support.
By crafting the bill to reflect these practices, the GOP hopes to strike a balance between accessibility and regulation.
The GOP’s effort comes after Assembly Speaker Robin Vos’ 2024 proposal for state-run dispensaries failed to gain Senate traction. “Dead is a strong word. I think it’s unlikely that it’s gonna pass this session,” Vos admitted at the time. Now, GOP lawmakers believe a more market-driven bill stands a better chance.
Assemblyman Snyder acknowledged the challenges ahead: “I just know my road in the Assembly will be challenging.” Still, he remains hopeful that this bill can succeed where others have stalled.
Under the new legislation, medical marijuana could be consumed through oils, tinctures, edibles, and vapors, but smoking would remain prohibited. By including these restrictions, GOP legislators hope to win over skeptical colleagues. “Hail Marys have happened,” Snyder said, referencing the long odds that often face reform bills.
Meanwhile, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has proposed full recreational legalization, but the GOP has consistently opposed that step. Wisconsin is now an outlier in the Midwest, with surrounding states having already legalized medical or recreational cannabis. Nationwide, 40 states allow medical marijuana, with 25 also permitting recreational use.
This bill represents both a policy shift and a political gamble for the GOP. While previous bills failed, supporters believe this version has been carefully crafted to appeal to a wider coalition. Whether or not it passes, the bill underscores how the GOP in Wisconsin is grappling with changing public opinion on cannabis.
