Democratic lawmakers in the Wisconsin Legislature have introduced a proposal aimed at legalizing recreational cannabis possession for adults, while establishing regulatory and tax frameworks for cultivation, distribution, and retail sales.
The legislation, identified as Senate Bill 1045, seeks to reshape the state’s current cannabis policy. Wisconsin remains among a small group of U.S. states without a comprehensive medical marijuana program and continues to criminalize simple cannabis possession in many cases.
The bill has gained backing from the entire Democratic minority caucus, including 15 senators and 33 assembly members. Supporters say the reform would modernize state drug policy and create new economic opportunities through regulated cannabis commerce.
Under the proposal, individuals aged 21 and older would be allowed to legally possess cannabis for recreational use. Adults could purchase hemp-derived intoxicating products, while medical cannabis access would be permitted for people aged 18 or older, or younger patients with guardian consent.
