February 16, Wisconsin Health News

Democratic lawmakers are circulating a proposal that would allow non-psychoactive cannabidiol oil to be manufactured in the state of Wisconsin, arguing a bill approved by the Senate last week doesn't go far enough.

The bill, authored by Sen. Chris Larson, D-Milwaukee, and Rep. Jimmy Anderson, D-Fitchburg, would establish a licensure program for individuals to produce and distribute CBD oil.

Assembly lawmakers held a hearing on the Senate-approved version Wednesday. That bill allows patients to possess CBD oil without facing a state penalty if they have certification from their doctor, but doesn't allow for its sale or manufacture in Wisconsin.

Democratic lawmakers on the Assembly Committee on Children and Families questioned how people could acquire CBD oil.

"Without having dispensaries in Wisconsin, I'm worried this is not the complete fix," said Rep. Jill Billings, D-La Crosse.

But the bill's authors said patients could purchase CBD oil online and in some neighboring states. Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine, said they considered including dispensaries. But he wanted to avoid regulation.

"If we took it to the regulators, we would never get this passed, not with the mindset of everybody at this point," he said. "I think the first thing we need to do is take away that fear from parents."