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Wisconsin’s Medical Marijuana Reform: A Stalemate Under Republican Leadership

Medical marijuana has remained a hot-button issue in Wisconsin, with public support for reform growing over the years. Yet, the state’s Republican-led legislature has stalled meaningful progress, avoiding public hearings and offering piecemeal legislation that fails to meet the needs of patients. The last comprehensive public hearing on medical marijuana took place on December 15, 2009—a joint hearing involving both the Senate and Assembly. That bill failed to pass out of committee, and since Republicans took control of the legislature in 2010, the issue has been largely ignored.

Political Shifts: A Tale of Two Leaders

The political landscape in Wisconsin has only hardened this legislative gridlock. In the Senate, Mary Felzkowski (R-Irma) has emerged as a key figure in the cannabis debate. After comfortably winning re-election in her newly drawn district under the 2022 redistricting maps, Felzkowski assumed the position of Senate President, replacing staunch cannabis opponent Senator Chris Kapenga (R-Delafield). While her rise to leadership gives hope for movement on the issue, her limited approach to reform—illustrated by her 2022 bill and off-session public hearing—has left many advocates frustrated.

Across the aisle in the Assembly, Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) has solidified his control over the chamber. Surviving two recall attempts, a general election challenge from a Democrat and an Independent, and even an internal caucus battle where Rep. Scott Allen (R-Waukesha) ran against him for Speaker, Vos emerged victorious. Now, emboldened by his “iron fist” leadership, Vos remains a significant obstacle to cannabis reform. Reports suggest that Vos and Felzkowski do not see eye to eye on the issue, further complicating any potential progress.

The Senate: A Glimmer of Hope or More Posturing?

Felzkowski has positioned herself as an advocate for limited medical marijuana reform, hosting a public hearing in April 2022. However, the hearing took place during the legislative off-session, leading critics to label it performative. Despite her leadership position and past efforts, Felzkowski’s proposals have been criticized as overly restrictive, failing to provide meaningful access for patients in need. Her rise to Senate President offers a new platform to champion reform, but significant barriers remain.

The Assembly: An Unyielding Roadblock

In the Assembly, the situation is even more dire. Vos has expressed support for a “limited” medical marijuana bill but has refused to bring the issue to a public hearing. Bills introduced by Assembly Republicans, including Rep. Clint Moses (R-Menomonie), have been widely criticized for being overly restrictive and failing to meet public demand.

The 2024 GOP medical cannabis bill, spearheaded by Vos, exemplifies the Assembly’s flawed approach. Activists have pointed out numerous shortcomings, including overly restrictive qualifying conditions, excessive physician oversight, and the exclusion of home cultivation. These limitations have led to widespread criticism, with many labeling the bill unworkable and out of touch with patient needs.

Leadership Tensions

The relationship between Vos and Felzkowski adds another layer of complexity to Wisconsin’s cannabis debate. While both hold leadership positions in their respective chambers, their differing approaches to medical marijuana reform and reported lack of alignment could stall any coordinated effort to pass meaningful legislation.

A Call for Action

The last true public hearing on medical marijuana reform occurred over a decade ago. Since then, Republicans in the legislature have avoided giving constituents the opportunity to weigh in on the issue meaningfully. While Felzkowski’s leadership in the Senate and Vos’s firm grip on the Assembly offer avenues for potential action, neither leader has demonstrated the political will to move beyond restrictive and inadequate proposals.

Wisconsinites deserve better. The public overwhelmingly supports medical marijuana reform, and the legislature’s continued inaction is a disservice to patients and advocates alike. As the 2025-26 legislative session begins, voters must hold their elected officials accountable and demand the long-overdue progress that Wisconsin deserves.

What is next with the GOP?

If Republicans insist on discussing cannabis policy solely behind closed doors within their own ranks, that is one challenge. However, another pressing issue is the stark division within the GOP itself. On one side, there are Republicans pushing for a complete ban on intoxicating hemp products, while on the other, there is an equally significant faction advocating for some degree of cannabis reform. This internal conflict reflects the broader uncertainty within the party on how to address the issue.

It has become painfully clear that Speaker Robin Vos is not interested in advancing cannabis reform in any meaningful way. Instead of governing and fostering collaboration, Vos has positioned himself as an arbiter, effectively stalling progress. His refusal to work with Democrats on this critical issue underscores his unwillingness to lead in a way that reflects the will of the people or the evolving needs of Wisconsin.

Despite these obstacles, there remains a clear path forward for legislators who genuinely care about cannabis reform. To break through the gridlock and foster bipartisan cooperation, it is essential to establish a Wisconsin Cannabis Caucus. This dedicated, cross-party group could serve as a platform for lawmakers committed to crafting and advancing policies that reflect the realities and opportunities of cannabis regulation. By forming such a caucus, pro-reform legislators can work together to ensure that cannabis policy becomes a priority in 2025 and beyond, transcending partisan politics and addressing the issue in a way that benefits all Wisconsinites.