With over 20 years of experience, I’ve dedicated my career to advancing cannabis policy and patient rights. One of the most impactful ways we drive change is through direct advocacy. That’s why I am joining ASA members and cannabis advocates across California for the California NORML/Americans for Safe Access Citizen Lobby Day on Monday, March 24, in Sacramento. This annual event is a powerful opportunity for us to meet with state representatives and make our voices heard on the critical issues affecting cannabis patients and the industry.
The Urgency of Advocacy: Why We Must Show Up
Cannabis legalization may have been achieved in California with Prop 64 in 2016, but the fight is far from over. At both the state and federal levels, we are seeing troubling developments that threaten patients’ rights, affordability, and the survival of businesses in the cannabis space.
At the state level, lawmakers are considering increasing the tax on cannabis sales from 15% to 19%. This would mean higher prices for patients and consumers who rely on cannabis products for relief. For businesses—especially small, independent operators—this could be the final blow in an already struggling industry. Many companies are barely staying afloat, and additional taxation could push them out of the market entirely.
But let’s be clear—this is not just about the cannabis businesses. This is about a movement.
For decades, advocates and patients have fought to bring cannabis out of the shadows, defend the rights of those who depend on it, and create a future where the plant is respected, not criminalized. We’ve made incredible strides, but bad policy could erase years of progress. Now is the time to stand up, speak out, and ensure our lawmakers understand: We are not going anywhere.
The Power of Citizen Lobbying: A Proven Track Record
Last year’s Citizen Lobby Day on May 6, 2024, demonstrated just how effective this form of advocacy can be. Dozens of supporters from across California came together to push for patient-friendly policies. As a direct result of our efforts, multiple bills we supported were signed into law, including:
The cannabis café bill, which now allows licensed businesses to offer on-site consumption, creating safe and social spaces for cannabis users.
A bill that extended cannabis compassion programs, ensuring that low-income and terminally ill patients can continue accessing the medicine they need.
Beyond policy wins, the event also had a profound impact on the advocates themselves. A post-event survey of participants found:
- 81% felt the experience was “empowering.”
- 88% found it “educational and interesting.”
- 77% said it was “enjoyable and fun.”
- 69% felt that their voices were heard regarding cannabis legislation in California.
- 92% said they would return for another Lobby Day.
Clearly, this is not just about influencing policy—it’s about community, empowerment, and making real change.
Building Relationships & Breaking Stigmas
One of the most important aspects of Citizen Lobby Day is its role in shifting perceptions among lawmakers. Despite legalization, cannabis consumers and businesses still face significant stigma, and that stigma translates into restrictive policies that harm patients and hinder industry growth.
By meeting face-to-face with representatives, we humanize the cannabis movement and show lawmakers that we are engaged, informed, and passionate about these issues. Many of the reforms we’ve seen in recent years—including employment rights for cannabis consumers and expanded medical protections—can be traced back to past Citizen Lobby Days.
Join Us in Sacramento on March 24
If you care about protecting patient rights, keeping cannabis accessible, and ensuring fair policies for consumers and businesses alike, you need to be in Sacramento on March 24.
Citizen Lobby Day is not just about policy—it’s about empowerment. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or a first-time participant, this event offers training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in legislative activism. By pairing newcomers with experienced advocates, we ensure that every participant leaves feeling confident in their ability to make a difference.
Every voice matters. Every conversation counts. When we come together as a community, we create real change.
Will you stand with us?
Mark your calendar, spread the word, and let’s show up in force to defend what we’ve fought so hard to achieve. The movement continues.
For more details and to RSVP, visit https://www.canorml.org/lobbyday2025/
Tony Bowles is the Founder of Terpene Flashcards, a Staff Writer at Skunk Magazine, and Chair of the Bay Area Safe Access chapter of Americans for Safe Access (ASA).
