Cannabis policy in the United States has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Advocacy organizations have been instrumental in changing public perceptions, influencing laws, and addressing social equity. 

From medical cannabis programs to full adult-use legalization, these groups have worked tirelessly to ensure policies reflect societal progress—all while promoting health, fairness, and economic opportunity. 

The Importance of Advocacy in Cannabis Reform

Advocacy groups are vital in reshaping cannabis policy. Their efforts include lobbying lawmakers, conducting research, educating the public, and mobilizing grassroots campaigns. These activities have shifted the conversation from prohibition to legalization and regulation. 

A 2023 Gallup poll showed that 68% of Americans support cannabis legalization, a dramatic increase compared to previous decades. This change highlights how advocacy has transformed cannabis reform from a niche issue into a widely accepted movement.

Key Advocacy Organizations Driving Change

Marijuana Policy Project (MPP)

Since its founding in 1995, the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) has been a leading force in state-level cannabis reforms across the US. The organization has successfully spearheaded initiatives to legalize cannabis and implement regulated markets. 

MPP prioritizes public health and equity by focusing on replacing criminalization with regulation.

National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML)

Established in 1970, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) is one of the oldest—and most influential—cannabis advocacy organizations. NORML provides resources to empower individuals to advocate for policy changes at all levels of government. The organization also engages in legal challenges and public awareness campaigns to promote a more informed understanding of cannabis use.

Americans for Safe Access (ASA)

Americans for Safe Access (ASA) is dedicated to ensuring patients have access to medical cannabis. The organization advocates for comprehensive medical cannabis programs, educates patients and healthcare providers, and challenges discriminatory practices. ASA’s work highlights the critical importance of patient rights and cannabis reform. 

Drug Policy Alliance (DPA)

Founded in 2000, the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) emphasizes a harm reduction approach to drug policy reform. The organization focuses on legalizing cannabis while addressing social justice issues. Chief among their goals is expunging past convictions and creating equity programs. DPA integrates cannabis reform into a broader vision of public health and systemic change.

Last Prisoner Project (LPP)

The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) works to address the injustices of cannabis prohibition by advocating for the release of individuals incarcerated for non-violent cannabis offenses. The organization also provides resources to help individuals reintegrate into society. LPP emphasizes that the growing legal cannabis industry must not overlook those who have already been penalized under prohibition. 

Shaping Policy and Society

The efforts of these organizations have resulted in legislative wins—including adult-use legalization in California, Colorado, and Illinois. Advocacy groups have shaped the public conversation surrounding cannabis by emphasizing the need for equitable and health-focused policies. 

These organizations also address the historical injustices of cannabis criminalization. This criminalization has disproportionately impacted communities of color. Their work ensures that new cannabis laws include provisions to expunge criminal records—and reinvest resources in marginalized communities.

The Future of Cannabis Advocacy

As cannabis legalization expands, advocacy remains essential. Organizations such as MPP, NORML, ASA, DPA, and LPP work to ensure new policies are fair, inclusive, and effective. They focus on creating a legal cannabis framework that acknowledges past injustices—all while encouraging a thriving, more equitable industry.

Through their efforts, these groups have not only transformed the legal and cultural landscape of cannabis—they have also set the stage for a more just and equitable future. Advocacy will remain a critical driver of progress as the United States moves forward in its approach to cannabis policy.