MADISON, WI- A bipartisan initiative has emerged in Wisconsin, aiming to decriminalize smaller quantities of marijuana. The current landscape features varying fine amounts across the state, a situation this proposed bill seeks to address by establishing uniform minimum fines. However, this change would result in higher minimum fines in certain areas, such as Green Bay and Appleton.
As Wisconsin’s Republican-controlled legislature remains opposed to full marijuana legalization, proponents of this effort view it as a compromise to reduce penalties for marijuana possession.
The existing penalty for possessing up to 14 grams is a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000 and six months in jail. The proposed bill suggests reducing this to a fine ranging from $100 to $250. Additionally, it eliminates the possibility of a repeat offender facing felony charges, specifically for offenses involving less than 28 grams.
The proposed bill also addresses paraphernalia possession, lowering the penalty to $10. Additionally, it includes provisions to limit the liability for employers opting not to conduct THC drug tests on prospective employees. Notably, a similar bipartisan effort for decriminalization failed to gain traction two years ago, and despite prior statements, medical marijuana legislation from Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has yet to materialize.
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