Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has included a proposal to legalize marijuana in his 2025-2027 budget request, marking another push to regulate and tax cannabis similar to alcohol.
On the same day, bipartisan legislation—Assembly Bill 50 and Senate Bill 45—was introduced in the state legislature to legalize and regulate marijuana for adult use.
“Legalize, regulate, and tax the sale of marijuana for recreational use, much like Wisconsin already does with alcohol,” said Governor Evers’ office The proposal estimates $58.1 million in revenue for fiscal year 2026-27, with increasing amounts expected in subsequent years.
Evers’ plan also includes provisions to expunge records and review sentences for individuals with marijuana-related convictions. Those serving time or previously convicted of minor nonviolent offenses would have an opportunity to reduce or repeal their sentences.
The legislation allows Wisconsin residents 21 and older to possess up to two ounces of marijuana, while nonresidents could carry up to a quarter ounce. Home cultivation of up to six cannabis plants would also be permitted. However, the bill clarifies that it does not change federal law, which continues to prohibit marijuana possession and distribution.
Under the proposal, marijuana sales would be subject to a 15% wholesale excise tax and a 10% retail excise tax. The Department of Revenue would oversee licensing and regulation, with businesses competing for permits through a scoring system. Producers and processors would also need additional permits from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
The bills also outline a formal process for individuals to petition for conviction expungement or record redesignation if their offenses are decriminalized under the new law.
If passed, Wisconsin would join 24 other states that have legalized recreational cannabis.
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