A Big Day for Cannabis Reform in Wisconsin — and the Work Ahead

Today marked a significant moment in Wisconsin’s long-running cannabis reform movement as I attended the public press conference unveiling comprehensive legislation addressing adult-use marijuana, medical cannabis, and intoxicating hemp products.

It was more than a press conference — it felt like a checkpoint in a journey that many of us have been on for years.

I rode down to Madison with the former Mayor of Berlin, and the drive quickly turned into a history lesson in early reform efforts. We shared stories from the days when even talking about marijuana reform publicly carried real political risk. Seeing how far the conversation has shifted — from whispers to full legislative proposals — is a reminder that persistence matters.

At the Capitol, I had the opportunity to meet with multiple legislators and stakeholders, reinforcing that this issue is no longer fringe. It’s mainstream policy discussion. I completed both TV and radio interviews to help communicate why this legislation matters: safety, regulation, consumer protection, and economic opportunity. During the press conference, it was an honor to stand among the heroic figures like Phillip Scott from The Wisconsin Hemp Farmers and Manufacturers Association and legislators always fighting for cannabis reform.

The Stoner’s Travel Guide to Wisconsin made an appearance as I ran into a few retail store owners carrying the books and a few more that were interested in becoming “Authorized Dealers” for the book. I was also brought in on a discussion about upcoming industry developments and plans for an expo and cannabis cup in Washington County in August 2026 — events that show Wisconsin is preparing for a regulated future whether lawmakers act quickly or not.

Importantly, we also used the day to lobby directly. We met with the offices of Senator Jagler and Assembly Representative Dallman regarding the hemp regulation bill. We met with representatives of the newly formed trade organization the Wisconsin Coalition for Cannabis Reform (WCCR) to discuss the final push and messaging before the legislative session ends. The message was simple: prohibition and uncertainty hurt small businesses, farmers, retailers, and consumers. Regulation creates standards, accountability, and transparency.

Lunch afterward brought together advocates and allies to talk strategy. The conversation turned toward the political reality ahead: organizing, applying pressure where necessary, and holding elected officials accountable — including preparing to challenge lawmakers who continue to block progress on hemp reform. This movement is no longer just about policy; it’s about political engagement.

There was also good news on the coalition-building front. John from Kind Oasis shared that he is exploring providing 2.5mg Cranberry Old Fashioned THC beverages for candidate meet-and-greets like the one we are having in Ripon this Feb 5th at 4:20pm. A very symbolic example of how businesses are stepping up to support responsible, low-dose, regulated cannabis culture in Wisconsin and a way to honor our state drink, the old fashioned, but D9 style.

Today showed what happens when advocates, businesses, and policymakers occupy the same room: the future becomes tangible.

But a press conference is only the beginning. Legislation moves when voters speak loudly and consistently.

👉 Take action now and tell lawmakers you support comprehensive cannabis regulation:

Wisconsin is closer than it has ever been. The question isn’t whether reform will come — it’s whether we help shape it responsibly or let the moment slip by.

Now is the time to push.

I must admit, when I came home I was tired. It was a long day. But the mail came and opening my packages from The Hemp Division and Ignite Dispensary topped the cannaday off nice. I brewed a cup of The Hemp Division “BOOM” CBD Tea and smoked a nice crumble infused pre roll from Ignite Dispensary.