[5] In November 2017, Governor Scott Walker signed a law legalizing the cultivation of industrial hemp (containing under 0.3% THC), following unanimous passage of the bill in the Wisconsin legislature.
Possession of any amount for a subsequent offense is a felony, punishable by up to 3.5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, which is also the penalty for selling 200 grams (7 oz) or less.
In April 1977, Madison voters approved a ballot measure to allow the possession of up to 112 grams (4 oz) of cannabis in a private area.
[26] In May 1997, Milwaukee Mayor John Norquist signed a bill to make the first-time possession of up to 25 grams (9/10 oz) of cannabis a non-criminal offense, punishable by a fine ranging from $250 to $500 or imprisonment of up to 20 days.
[28][29] On April 1, 2014, residents of Dane County voted on a non-binding referendum to indicate whether or not state lawmakers should pass legislation to allow the recreational use of cannabis.
[37] In November 2018, Eau Claire city council members approved a resolution setting a $1 fine for first-time possession of up to 25 grams (9/10 oz) of cannabis (though with court costs included the total comes to $138).
[38] The resolution came a few weeks after voters in Eau Claire County approved a non-binding referendum expressing support for legalizing the recreational use of cannabis.
[39] In November 2020, Madison Common Council approved legislation to allow individuals 18 and older to possess up to 28 grams (1 oz) of cannabis and consume it in public and private places.
[40] Use within 1000 feet of a school, where tobacco smoking is prohibited, or without the consent of the property owner remain illegal under the law (reduced to a $1 fine).
[43] In March 2021, the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors voted 16–1 to reduce the penalty for possession of up to 25 grams (9/10 oz) of cannabis to $1 (not including court costs).
[46] In March 2022, Green Bay City Council voted unanimously to eliminate the fine for possessing up to 28 grams (1 oz) of cannabis so that only court costs would apply ($61).
[49] The measures were approved in the counties of Dane, Eau Claire, and Milwaukee, and the municipalities of Appleton, Kenosha, Racine, Stevens Point, and Superior.