Wisconsin Family Action Lobbying Against Marijuana Reform
In a special series, we are uncovering who is lobbying against marijuana reform in Wisconsin.
We recently uncovered this organization when doing candidate and legislative research.
Wisconsin Family Action:
Founded: 2006
Registered Lobbyist: Julaine Appling (Also registered lobbyist with Wisconsin Family Council
Purpose
- Inform Wisconsin citizens about pro-family legislative and cultural issues
- Involve Wisconsin citizens in activities that strengthen the family
- Prepare Wisconsin citizens for elections, as the law provides
- Advocate in the state legislature on cultural and legislative issues that affect the family
Mission
To advance Judeo-Christian principles and values in Wisconsin by strengthening, preserving, and promoting marriage, family, life and liberty.
Organizational Structure
Wisconsin Family Action is a 501(c)(4) organization for purposes of the IRS, which means the federal government and the IRS do not allow gifts and contributions to WFA to be tax deductible. WFA receives no state or federal funding. We rely on the gifts of people who believe in its work in the public policy arena of Wisconsin. Gifts to WFA are not reportable to the general public.
Here is what they have archived about their efforts to stop marijuana reform in Wisconsin:
Julaine Appling, president of Wisconsin Family Action, says, “As states across the country have embarked on this drug experiment, the evidence mounts that any legalization of marijuana comes with consequences, not the least of which is increased crime. In fact, law enforcement in Colorado deems this a public safety issue. Wisconsin lawmakers need to hear from citizens before going very far down this policy path.”
WFA president Julaine Appling says, “I’m not sure why Republican Speaker Robin Vos is open to the idea. Most Republicans oppose this idea and the slippery slope it creates. While some claim this is an important medical treatment, many others point out the legal issues for doctors, remind us of the addictive nature of marijuana and point out other treatments exist that don’t involve this addictive narcotic.”
SB 577/no Assembly version to date – Decriminalizing 28 grams or less of marijuana (WFA opposes).
This bill makes a number of changes in the current law as it relates to bringing charges against a person who possesses, attempts to possess, possesses with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or deliver marijuana. WFA believes marijuana is a gateway drug that leads to using other harder drugs and that marijuana use in and of itself can significantly impair judgment and alter behavior. Twenty-eight grams of marijuana is the equivalent of over 80 “joints.” The bill is currently in committee; no further action to date.
N.E.W. Patriots presents
“A panel discussion on Marijuana”
Panel members :
Against Reform
Julaine Appling (President, WI Family Council)
Joe Giganti (Radio Host)
Pro-reform
Shae Sortwell (State Representative)
Kris Teegarden (Wisconsin Cannabis Activist Network)
Since Colorado and Washington became the first in 2012, now 16 states and D.C. have legalized marijuana for adults and 37 states allow medical marijuana to be used.
Though not a clear Left versus Right issue there are still strong opinions on both sides. Wisconsin is not among those states that permit marijuana use, but the issue is alive and coming to the forefront even in our state. Therefore it is especially important that the residents of Wisconsin become well informed about marijuana and the pros and cons of legalization.
The main objective of this N.E.W. Patriot event is to have a conversation with a panel, where both sides are well represented, for a robust discussion sharing factual information. The panel members will also address questions from the audience.
Event date: Monday, June 28 starting at 6 pm.
Event location: The Big Red Barn (board member Linda’s tree farm) at 2040 Sieker Lane, Greenleaf, WI 54126. This is about 10 miles south of East De Pere. (if your GPS cannot find the above address try 6737 Ledgetop Drive in Greenleaf. That will get you to the same place)
There is a slight gravel incline to walk up to enter the barn, where the event will be held. Also if you have a favorite lawn chair you are welcome to bring it along.
The event is open to the public. Invite a friend to come along!
Stay active and stay informed!
We hope to see you on Monday, June 28th at 6 pm!
Facebook Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/394990721839674
On June 16th, 2021 Wisconsin Family Action official registered in opposition of AB 130 / SB 164, to decriminalize 10 grams or less to a $100 fine in the entire state of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Family Action at (608) 268-5074.
Christian values do to put people in prison for using a plant. Marijuana should be treated as a health issue, not a criminal issue. The Interfaith Drug Policy Initiative, which was an organization of different faith leaders from around the world agrees, substance abuse should be a health issue, not a criminal issue.
I personally know members of this organization and they say that this lead lobbyist Julaine K Appling is rouge on the marijuana issue and does not really represent all the members of the Christian community and values they have.