Last week, on April 20th, Democrat candidate for Governor Mandela Barnes argued for legalizing recreational marijuana, claiming it would generate new tax revenue for Wisconsin. His estimated revenue represents just a fraction of the annual state budget amounting to—around 0.07 percent. While headlines highlight potential dollars, they often ignore the broader fiscal and social realities already being experienced in states that have legalized recreational marijuana.

For just seven hundredths of a percent in revenue increases Wisconsin would see increased costs as a result of higher demands on law enforcement, more drug-impaired driving accidents, and added strain on families already facing addiction. Legalizing recreational drugs will only damage Wisconsin families.