Wisconsin – A Hub for Cannabis Innovation by Rep. Sargent
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 12, 2019
Contact: Representative Melissa Sargent Email: Rep.Sargent@legis.wi.gov Phone: (608)-266-0960
Wisconsin— A Hub for Cannabis Innovation
MADISON– Representative Melissa Sargent (D-Madison) released the following statement in support of the passage of AB-206 during today’s Assembly Floor Session:
“Wisconsin has the opportunity to be the hemp and cannabis hub of the Midwest, as demonstrated by the booming and successful hemp industry that has already begun in our state thanks to the Wisconsin Hemp Pilot Research Program. With Wisconsin’s rich farming heritage, in addition to its innovative entrepreneurs and business owners, Wisconsin has a long history of getting things done and being a pioneering leader for our nation.
Historically, hemp production in Wisconsin has been a crucial part of our collective identity and brought unprecedented economic stability to our diverse communities. After years of mindless federal prohibition, hemp is once again becoming a vital aspect of our growing state. From personal care products to sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics, Wisconsin is starting a new chapter in our states development-one that relies on hemp production.
The stunning positive impact of hemp production in our state proves that Wisconsin is the perfect site for full cannabis legalization. With Wisconsin’s strong agricultural roots and hardworking mindset, our state has the landscape and dedicated labor force to be the forefront of cannabis innovation and production. Fortunately, today, the Wisconsin State Assembly voted for the passage of AB-206, a bipartisan bill to update and address some of the obstacles being faced in the hemp industry. This legislation is an important step in assisting our state’s farmers and workers and moving the cannabis industry forward.
The fact of the matter is, that the legislation I have introduced to fully legalize cannabis in Wisconsin– AB 220– will bring a vastly profitable sector for our agricultural capabilities and producers, and will only further the remarkable successes our state has seen within the hemp program.
The future of Wisconsin agriculture rests on our state’s cannabis production, and I am proud to be a co-sponsor on AB-206 to further address the obstacles the hardworking farmers and entrepreneurs are facing. Cannabis is bringing, and will continue to bring, many opportunities to our state, and I look forward to Wisconsin taking further steps to legalize opportunity in our state.”
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Melissa Sargent is a State Representative in the Wisconsin Assembly, representing the 48th Assembly District, which covers the east and north sides of the city of Madison and the village of Maple Bluff. Source
