MADISON – Democratic legislators are pushing to expand access to comprehensive care through the use of medical cannabis. The proposal authored by Sen. Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) and Rep. Chris Taylor (D-Madison) would legalize physician-supervised access to medical cannabis. The bill has gained widespread bi-partisan support from health professionals, patients and lawmakers including Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse).

“Most people view medical cannabis as an issue of providing comprehensive health care to those with serious illnesses,” said Shilling. “Medical research, scientific studies, and personal experiences clearly support the use of medical cannabis. For cancer patients, glaucoma sufferers and other ailing citizens, medical cannabis is one potential tool health professionals can use to treat serious medical conditions and ease their suffering. I think it’s time to look at our laws and join the majority of states that have already legalized medical cannabis to help treat patients with unbearable and debilitating pain.”

A recent Marquette Law poll found that 83% of Wisconsin residents support cannabis for medical purposes with a doctor’s prescription. Medical cannabis is currently legal in 33 states including the border states of Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois.

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