By Jalen Maki
Tomahawk Leader Editor
MADISON – A local legislator is not backing his colleagues’ efforts to legalize medical marijuana in Wisconsin.
On Monday, Jan. 8, Republicans in the Wisconsin State Assembly announced a proposal that would legalize marijuana for medical use in the Badger State.
Under the proposal, five state-operated dispensaries would offer non-smokable marijuana products to individuals with severe chronic medical conditions, such as cancer.
State Representative Calvin Callahan (R-Tomahawk) said in a release that he would not support his fellow Republicans’ proposal.
“While still a very limited proposal, Governor Evers signaled last week he would sign it, prior to having reviewed it, even though he would prefer full legalization,” Callahan stated in a release. “In all the discussions I have had with my local law enforcement – sheriffs, chiefs of police, officers – throughout my time in the State Assembly, never have I heard them ask me to support the legalization of marijuana in any form.”
Callahan said he would not back the GOP-led proposal because he believes it is a “gateway bill to full legalization.”
“Instead, I will continue to stand by my partners in the law enforcement community in the 35th Assembly District,” Callahan stated.