Boyd Receives Support for Cannabis Reform in Alabama
Will Boyd, the Democratic candidate for governor, has received backing from the Alabama Cannabis Coalition, a grassroots organization focused on changing the state’s cannabis laws. This announcement coincides with Boyd’s introduction of the “Hybrid Hemp Plan,” a significant strategy intended to reverse Alabama’s ban on hemp and broaden access to cannabis-related products.
H. Marty Shelper, who founded the Alabama Cannabis Union, expressed his support, acknowledging Boyd’s dedication to advocating for reform, as well as protecting the interests of patients, small businesses, and veterans.
“This support is incredibly important to me,” Boyd mentioned. “The coalition has worked relentlessly for patients, veterans, and small business owners in our state, often going unrecognized. I’m honored to stand alongside them.”
This development comes after extensive discussions surrounding the Alabama Legislature’s stringent regulations on hemp-derived products. Earlier this year, proposed legislation led to a de facto ban on the sale of smokable hemp and popular products like cannabidiol (CBD) and Delta THC. Boyd criticized this legislative action as a betrayal of science and small business interests, claiming it undermined individual freedoms.
“The ban on hemp-derived products at home wasn’t just poor policy. It had real consequences for farmers, patients, veterans, and our economy,” Boyd expressed. “It disregarded scientific evidence and penalized small businesses while neglecting the desires of the public. I can’t accept that as governor.”
In his platform, Boyd has outlined a comprehensive approach that proposes a ban on smoking hemp products, revising THC limitations, reinstating online sales, and lessening regulatory hurdles for entering the hemp market. He plans to instruct state agencies to update enforcement policies, look into legal strategies based on successful lawsuits in other states, and unite a wide range of advocates to sway lawmakers toward reform.
“I stand for personal freedom, including the ability to seek relief through natural medicine, operate small businesses without excessive government interference, and make choices regarding one’s own health,” Boyd stated. “Being a champion for rational policies means advocating for what’s right, even if it isn’t popular. I intend to be that advocate for all of Alabama as governor.”
Additionally, Boyd’s plan emphasizes his commitment to granting amnesty for minor marijuana offenses and supporting efforts to expunge records. He aims to encourage Congress to permit citizens to vote on cannabis policies directly, and if legislators resist, he will pursue a special session to facilitate the discussion.
“This initiative transcends mere policy; it is a commitment,” Boyd asserted. “If I’m elected, I will utilize all available means—government leadership, legal actions, and grassroots efforts—to terminate this ban and usher in significant reforms. This is not solely about hemp; it’s about fostering healing, freedom, and a future where the people of Alabama are prioritized.”
