Rep. Dallman asks about THC Beverages

Located in central Wisconsin, Assembly District 39 comprises all of Green Lake and Marquette counties, along with much of western Fond du Lac County and parts of northeast Columbia County, southeast Winnebago County, and eastern Adams County. It includes the cities of Berlin, Green Lake, Markesan, Montello, Princeton, and Ripon. The district also contains Fox River National Wildlife Refuge, Summerton Bog, Ripon College and the historic Little White Schoolhouse in Ripon—the birthplace of the Republican Party.

This district is pretty red and is a solid seat for the Republicans. Rep. Dallman is my assembly representative for Assembly District 39. He was first elected in November 2020.

Background Information

Alex Dallman from Green Lake provided this stance as a candidate in 2020: “My current stance on Marijuana Reform would be against legalization of recreational use. I am also currently opposed to medicinal, but I am more open to exploring this side of it.” He added on the topic of decriminalization: “For simple possession of small amount, I am in favor.” 

Wi Eye interviewed Alex Dallman on July 9, 2020 ; in which Dallman added the “slippery slope” theory to his list opposition {editor note slippery slope and gateway theories are debunked and not backed by fact}, stating he is worried medical marijuana leads quickly to recreational marijuana”. Leary about adding a new drug (marijuana) into our society and our environment and hopefully we can stay away from that.

I spoke to Rep. Dallman on the phone for about 15 minutes back in 2021 to provide him background on the Republican attempts to decriminalize marijuana going back to the 2017 legislation. I asked him to co-sponsor Assembly Bill 130, the 2021 Republican version of marijuana decriminalization. He did not co-sponsor the bill. In fact, he later went onto flip flop his stance on decriminalization saying to me that unless the Green Lake County Sheriff gives him the green light to vote yes, he will be a no vote on even simple decriminalization measures.

 He retained his seat in 2022 very easily, as no one ran against him.

In the 2023-24 legislative session, Dallman had the audacity to stand by a few other Republicans when their PR stunt of their version of “medical marijuana” was introduced. Assembly Republicans could not generate real support for their crap bill, so they called in the stooges to stand by them and act like they care. In the article published on PBS, bill author Jon Plumer (R) introduced his bill and look who standing next to him, Dallman and fellow cannabis hater in the Republican Assembly William Penterman. Both Dallman and Penterman have been very outspoken about their support for prohibition and are not labeled friendly to the cause by citizens in their districts. Real republican friendlies working on legalization and decriminalization measures basically laugh when either the name Dallman and Penterman are brought up.

Alex Dallman has never co-sponsored any legislation to reform the marijuana laws in Wisconsin and has been an obstacle to any reform measures, even within this own party.

In the 2024 election season, Alex Dallman was harshly criticized by the largest newspaper in his district for not debating Democrat Gordon at the Ripon League of Women’s Voters. The editorial by newspaper owner Tim Lyke entitled Dallman, Grothman afraid to address League of Women Voters. The article is worth the read and Lyke slams Dallman again and again, saying: “Incumbents selfishly can argue that it is tactically unwise for them to appear before the public to answer public-policy questions, fearing such appearances risk raising the profile and visibility of their opponents, whom they would have to sit next to at the same event. 

But for the boy legislator to fire a spit wad in their direction? 

This suggests the League of Women Voters — founded in Chicago in 1920 by Ripon’s own Carrie Chapman Catt — must have something nefarious up its sleeve.”

The Ripon Commonwealth Express asked and reported on Oct 24th Do you support the legalization of cannabis for medical and/or recreational purposes? 

Dallman: I support the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes because we currently have much more potent prescription medications on the market that have far worse side effects than cannabis. I am not in favor of full recreational at this time because I would like to continue learning about the positive and negative impacts that are occuring in other states around the country. This will allow Wisconsin to make the best decisions as to whether or not to implement the use of cannabis for medical or recreational purposes in Wisconsin.

In 2024 Dallman did face a Democratic challenger in the election, but Dallman is in a very Republican district and has no real threat of being defeated by a Democrat. Someone will need to challenge this guy in a primary with a well thought out campaign in order to “vote him out”.

The Present Day Landscape

The Joint Committee on Finance (or Joint Finance Committee, JFC) could be the most important committees of the Wisconsin Legislature. It is responsible for writing the biennial state budget. It has the authority to approve requests for funding, agency position authority, and state lawsuit settlements.

The committee is 16 members and has an equal number of members from the Assembly and Senate. The Republican Party hold legislative majorities in both houses and Republican caucus leaders are able to appoint most of the members of the committee.

Rep. Dallman was appointed to the Joint Finance Committee during the 2023-24 session and again retains his role on this powerful committee during the 2025-26 session.

Understanding Wisconsin’s Joint Finance Committee and Its Role in Budgeting

The Joint Finance Committee (JFC) serves as one of the most influential entities in Wisconsin’s state government. Comprising members from both major parties, this bipartisan committee is tasked with shaping the state’s biennial budget, reviewing fiscal policies, and making critical funding decisions that affect every resident.

To stay updated, follow the JFC Republicans and Democrats on Twitter: @jfrepublicans and @jfcdemocrats.

JFC’s Role in Wisconsin’s Political Landscape

The JFC’s decisions significantly impact various sectors, including education, infrastructure, and public safety. The committee’s deliberations often serve as a microcosm of broader political battles within the state legislature. Republicans typically advocate for tax cuts and limited government intervention, while Democrats focus on expanding public services and investing in community resources.

My Experience with Advocacy

During campaigns for cannabis reform and public education funding, I’ve seen firsthand how this committee’s decisions influence grassroots movements and the daily lives of Wisconsinites. For instance, when when people testify at JFC public hearings for the inclusion of hemp-related economic initiatives in the state budget, it became clear how vital citizen advocacy is in shaping fiscal priorities.

Importance of Citizen Engagement

Public involvement in the JFC’s processes is critical. Budget hearings held across the state and online provide a platform for residents to voice their concerns and influence decisions. These hearings are an opportunity to present data, personal stories, and policy suggestions directly to legislators.

If you’re interested in advocating for issues like cannabis reform, education, or environmental conservation, consider attending a budget hearing or contacting your local representatives. Grassroots lobbying, as I’ve learned from years of experience, can bring about meaningful change when paired with strategic planning and coalition-building.

Looking Ahead

As Wisconsin navigates its fiscal future, the JFC’s decisions will continue to shape the state’s priorities. Staying informed and engaged is essential for anyone interested in impacting the state’s policies. Whether through social media, public testimony, or direct communication with JFC members, your voice can help shape Wisconsin’s future.

Dallman’s Latest “Ask”

The email update I received from Dallman on April 4th indicates he had a cannabis conversation with the Grocers Association about THC drinks. The email states:

While on the road from Kaukauna to West Allis in Milwaukee County—and still managing my Madison office duties—I had the opportunity to meet with the Wisconsin Grocers Association. During our conversation, we touched on a range of topics—and one small, yet intriguing, part was about tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) drinks. This is a new trend, and I’m curious to hear your thoughts on it. What do you think about THC drinks? Please reply to this email and let me know your perspective.

Rep. Alex Dallman official email: Rep.Dallman@legis.wisconsin.gov

Side Note on one of the WI Grocer Association Lobbyist

James Steineke is a Wisconsin real estate agent and Republican politician from Kaukauna, Wisconsin. He was the majority leader of the Wisconsin State Assembly from January 2015 until his resignation from the Assembly in July 2022. He had represented the Wisconsin’s 5th Assembly district since 2011. Steineke was opposed to cannabis reform as a legislator. He is now a Partner and VP of Advocacy at The Welch Group, a lobbying organization.

Also remember that the last two Joint Finance Committee Budget Listening Sessions are coming up on April 28th and 29th, 2025.