Two Wirch Bills Become Law

Legislation Offering New Seizure Treatment, Special Trout Unlimited Plates Signed by Governor

Madison- Two bills authored by Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) were signed into law by the Governor at the State Capitol today. Assembly Bill 726 (AB726) allows cannabidiol (CBD) oil extract to be prescribed for the treatment of severe seizure disorders, and Assembly Bill 173 (AB173) establishes a special license plate to benefit Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. Both bills passed the State Legislature with broad bipartisan support.

“I am proud to author these two important pieces of legislation and even prouder to see them become law. My colleagues and I worked across the aisle to make that happen. That is how legislating should be – working together for the good of the people of Wisconsin,” Wirch said.

AB726 allows a physician to prescribe CBD oil for the treatment of seizure disorders with the authorization of the federal Food and Drug Administration; the doctor or pharmacist that dispenses CBD oil would need approval from the state Controlled Substances Board. While CBD oil is a component of the marijuana plant, it is extremely low in THC and has no recreational value; the legislation puts in place safeguards to ensure that the treatment will not be abused. Treatment with CBD oil is aimed at children and others with epilepsy or other forms of severe seizure disorders for which traditional treatments have been ineffective, leaving brain surgery as the only other option.

AB173 allows the state Department of Transportation to create special registration plates supporting Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. Residents interested in the Trout Unlimited plates will pay an additional $25 fee that will serve as a donation to Trout Unlimited.

“We’ve seen a lot of partisan squabbling over the last four years, so it was great to see us come together to pass these two important bills on the last day of the legislative session,” stated Wirch.