Archive · 2026-07-28

Legal weed is a patchwork of regulations across the U.S. While a reality for some and just a dream for others, more and more people seem to be coming around. From state government regulators to looming federal oversight, it can be difficult to keep up with what is legal and where. At CannaCon, we help cannabis business operators and enthusiasts stay up-to-date and in-the-know on shifting rules, requirements, and legal weed laws. Let’s take a look at what’s going on in one of the more heavily restricted states regarding marijuana legalization - Wisconsin.

How Legal Is Cannabis in Wisconsin Now?

Recreational marijuana is completely illegal in Wisconsin, and no medical program currently exists. That being said, Wisconsin is fairly permissive regarding hemp-derived Delta-9 THC. The state passed Wisconsin Act 68 in 2019 to align with the 2018 federal Farm Bill. This Act allows products including hemp-derived gummies, edibles, beverages, as well as a variety of tinctures and topicals. Consumers can find THCA flower, and vapes and cartridges featuring Delta-8, Delta-10, THCA, THCP, CBD, and CBN in many dispensaries across the state, though operators are prohibited from advertising. As the federal hemp ban deadline looms closer, Wisconsin advocates are working to protect the sector within the state. The state’s advocacy organization, the Wisconsin Coalition for Cannabis Reform (WCCR), is pushing to protect the current hemp market. In July, the group released a position statement titled Protecting Wisconsin Consumers: The Future of Hemp Regulation calling on newly-elected government officials to “enact legislation in the first 100 days of the incoming administration that delivers needed consumer protections and regulatory clarity.” Governor Tony Evers agrees. In a recent letter to Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation, Evers urged leaders to support a state Farm Bill that protects the state’s hemp sector, which is responsible for nearly 3,500 jobs and $700 million in revenue. Evers wrote, “I also once again urge you to take needed action to prevent mass disruption of the hemp industry due to the federal hemp definition change passed by Congress last year.”

Marijuana Bills Proposed, but Not Passed

In 2025, many Wisconsinites were hopeful for more extensive and accessible cannabis legalization policies. Regardless of political affiliation, state leaders had been working to promote cannabis access beyond hemp, but ultimately without success. Wisconsin’s current state administration failed to pass the Republican-sponsored Senate Bill 534 that would have allowed a medical marijuana program. Democratic-sponsored Senate Bill 1405, which aimed to allow an adult-use marijuana program, also failed to be implemented during this year’s legislative session.

Potential New Wisconsin Leaders Hope to Join Midwest Markets

Despite the fact that 67% of Wisconsin’s registered voters approve marijuana legalization, the state remains something of an island in the otherwise cannabis-friendly Midwest. Minnesota, the state’s next-door neighbor, has one of the fastest-growing and friendliest recreational marijuana markets in the U.S. Nearby Illinois and Michigan also boast fairly permissive regulations. Several of the state’s leaders understand the implications of maintaining restrictive cannabis policies, as it not only goes against the wishes of residents, but also forfeits billions of potential revenue. Candidate for Lieutenant Governor Sarah Godlewski shared a video in which she stated, "Prohibition has never been the Wisconsin way, and we cannot wait another year sending jobs, revenue, and opportunity to other neighboring states. Wisconsin needs to legalize marijuana, period." Gubernatorial candidates seem to largely be on the same page regarding legal weed in Wisconsin. David Crowley, Andy Manske, and Sara Rodriguez are also in favor of legalizing cannabis. Mandela Barnes, another candidate for Governor of Wisconsin, posted a direct tweet, “When I’m governor, we’re going to legalize marijuana.” All three top legislative offices - governor, state assembly speaker, and state Senate majority leader - will change hands after the current term. Unfortunately, Wisconsin residents will have to wait until newly elected leaders are sworn in on January 4, 2027, and hope they are able to make efficient progress toward legal marijuana access, whether medical or recreational.

Keep Up With the Latest Wisconsin Weed Laws at CannaCon!

CannaCon is the nation’s leading cannabis conference, bringing together industry leaders, business owners, and cannabis enthusiasts to discuss all things cannabis. It’s the perfect event to join the conversation on Wisconsin cannabis laws and stay in the know. The next CannaCon takes place on Aug. 28-29 in St. Louis. Get your tickets now and reserve your seat at the table with other Midwest cannabis leaders!