As a resident of Wisconsin, you feel our state lawmakers should move swiftly to end the failed policy of marijuana prohibition and criminalization. Session after session legislation stalls in committees and Wisconsin falls further behind on the issue.

Never in modern history has there existed greater public support for ending the nation's nearly century-long experiment with marijuana prohibition. The 2023-24 legislative session will be crucial for state lawmakers to make marijuana law reform a priority.

The continued criminalization of adult marijuana use is out of step with the views of adults throughout America. Support for legalization of marijuana is at an all-time high. The emerging industry that is cannabis produces jobs in multiple sectors and the untapped tax revenue is tremendous for states that have legalized the industry.

Prohibition financially burdens taxpayers, encroaches upon civil liberties, engenders disrespect for the law, impedes legitimate scientific research into the plant's medicinal properties, and disproportionately impacts communities of color.

It is time to acknowledge this reality. It is time to stop ceding control of the marijuana market to untaxed criminal enterprises, and for lawmakers to implement common-sense regulations governing cannabis’ personal use by adults and licensing its production.

In 2018, advisory referendums on marijuana in Wisconsin were on the ballots in 16 counties and two cities, and although they were non-binding, all of them were overwhelmingly approved by voters. Again in 2022 advisory referendums were held and passed.  The time is now for Wisconsin to reform our marijuana laws.