Assembly run yields support from Incumbent Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) on medical marijuana

I have spoke about not should they, but how will they legalize marijuana time and time again.  As we learned from field work, it is hard to find someone that does not support Industrial Hemp.  Even during the my campaign for Wisconsin State Assembly all three candidates, “in theory” supported the idea of industrial hemp and medical marijuana.  During a forum with the League of Women’s, the incumbent Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) indicated support for medical marijuana, a past sponsor of the 2009-2010 Assembly Bill 206/Industrial Hemp and former “non-vocal supporter of Assembly Bill 554/Medical Marijuana.  Ballweg was uncertain how it would be implemented at the state level.

Ballweg is no longer in the minority percentage on medical marijuana with her on record support.  With her party recently coming out of the minority status also, not on the marijuana issue, but in fall elections.  Add to the mix that the assembly district 41 in which Ballweg retained is also in Senate District 14 of Luther Olsen (R-Ripon) who had been labeled as supporter of medical marijuana during the last session and mentioned recently again on WPR radio as a supporter.  Could these ingredients be stirred into a bowl and develop the combinations and support needed to get the Industrial Hemp and Medical Marijuana bills included in any Doyle lame duck sessions people are quaking about?  Who knows, but with roughly 10%  of the votes in the election against Ballweg going to the “Cannabis Candidate” running on a platform of full legalization I hope the 1 out of 10 voters pick up the phone, write a letter, send an email and visit with their legislators today.

I again and again commented that a comprehensive marijuana plan is needed, addressing all issues of the plant for Wisconsin.  I feel growing industrial hemp for food, fuel and fiber products, allowing patients a medical marijuana system and allowing consumers a SAFER choice than alcohol or nicotine.  Wisconsin is known for regulations, public safety and high taxes, which are all virtues needed for a comprehensive marijuana plan.

So as Wisconsin and other states move forward with reform, keep in communication with each other, take every shot you can and keep on your elected officials to end marijuana prohibition now.