WJI supports Gov. Evers’ cannabis initiative

Feb. 18, 2019 – Wisconsin Justice Initiative Executive Director Gretchen Schuldt responded Monday to Gov. Tony Evers‘ proposal to decriminalize some marijuana use and to establish a medical marijuana program.

“This is a good positive step,” Schuldt said, noting that WJI is awaiting details. “Wisconsin’s refusal so far to adopt a medical marijuana program is hurting the state’s residents and its economy. Why would any individual or business established in a medical marijuana state want to move to Wisconsin, where legitimate treatments are suddenly felonies?”

Evers is right to propose decriminalizing some marijuana offenses and expunction of criminal records for some past marijuana convictions, she said.

“It is time for this state to join the 21st century on marijuana laws,” Schuldt said. “Wisconsinites made their opinion clear in November, when they voted in 16 advisory referendums in favor of cannabis legalization. Now it’s time to find out if the Legislature respects the will and legitimate medical needs of the voters.”

The mission of the Wisconsin Justice Initiative is to advocate for progressive change in the Wisconsin justice system by educating the public about its real-life impacts and partnering with other organizations to achieve more just outcomes.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.