Assembly approves CBD oil bill

March 8, Wisconsin Health News

The Assembly unanimously approved legislation Tuesday that lifts state penalties for possessing cannabinoid oil, sending the bill to Gov. Scott Walker's desk.

The bill would allow patients with documentation from a doctor to possess the CBD oil, which is derived from marijuana. Under federal rules, however, the substance is still classified as a schedule I drug, making it illegal to possess.

While lawmakers voted to approve the bill, some had concerns. Rep. Jill Billings, D-La Crosse, said the bill is "not the fix that we're looking for" because it doesn't create a way for families and patients to get the drug.

"This legislation gets us to the door, but it doesn't get us in the room," Billings said. "And the problem is how do you get it?"

Bill author Rep. Scott Krug, R-Nekoosa, said of the states that have legalized CBD oil, a few have dispensaries, meaning that families in other states are still gaining access to the substance. 

"It is not a problem for families to obtain CBD oil in any of the states," Krug said.