Wisconsin Governor Prioritizes Marijuana Legalization in 2025 Session
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has listed marijuana legalization as a key priority for the 2025 legislative session, citing a budget surplus and Democratic gains in the state legislature. During a budget listening tour stop, Evers emphasized the need to move forward on evidence-based justice reform, which he believes includes legalizing cannabis.
Evers has long advocated for ending cannabis prohibition in Wisconsin, but has faced resistance from the Republican-controlled legislature. Despite Democrats picking up several seats, they still hold a minority in both chambers, making it unlikely that broad legalization will pass until at least after the 2026 elections.
The governor’s push for marijuana legalization comes as new polling data from Gallup shows that a significant majority of Americans support the policy change. According to the survey, 70% of Americans approve of marijuana legalization, with 26% of young adults aged 18-34 reporting that they use cannabis.
Wisconsin Democrats, including Senator Melissa Agard, have introduced legislation to legalize marijuana, citing the potential for significant tax revenue and economic benefits. A fiscal estimate from the state Department of Revenue projects that legalization could generate nearly $170 million annually in tax revenue.
In the meantime, a bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced a measure to decriminalize marijuana possession, which could potentially pass through the GOP-controlled legislature. The governor and other Democrats have expressed willingness to enact a modest medical marijuana program, even if they prefer more comprehensive reform.
As the 2025 legislative session approaches, it remains to be seen whether Wisconsin will join the growing list of states that have legalized marijuana.
