Wisconsin gov to propose legalizing medical marijuana in first budget

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New Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers said Monday his first budget will include proposals to legalize medical cannabis and align the state’s laws on cannabidiol with federal standards, a move that potentially could open business opportunities for marijuana entrepreneurs.

Under the governor’s plan, a physician or a practitioner under the direction of a physician would be allowed to recommend the use of MMJ to alleviate symptoms related to medical conditions such as cancer, glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic pain, severe nausea and seizures.

Evers said he also intends to align Wisconsin’s laws on cannabidiol, also known as CBD oil, with federal standards.

Currently, Wisconsin law requires families to possess CBD oil only with yearly certification by a physician. On a federal level, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in September removed some cannabidiol from the Schedule 1 classification, though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reiterated that CBD cannot be used in food products.

Evers, a Democrat, had expressed support for medical marijuana during his gubernatorial campaign to unseat incumbent Scott Walker.

The governor’s plan also would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use and establish an expungement procedure for individuals who have completed their sentence or probation for possession.

In addition, Evers said he wants to decriminalize possession, manufacturing or distribution of marijuana for amounts of 25 grams or less.

– Associated Press and Marijuana Business Daily