The fight for fair cannabis policy in California is far from over. While legalization has been a step in the right direction, ongoing challenges threaten consumer access, business sustainability, and the rights of cannabis users across the state. That’s why Beard Bros Pharms is urging all advocates, business owners, patients, and enthusiasts to take action by attending the California NORML & Americans for Safe Access Citizen Lobby Day on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Sacramento.
Why This Year’s Lobby Day Is More Important Than Ever
This year, the stakes are higher than ever. The California cannabis excise tax is set to increase from 15% to 19% in July 2025 unless legislators intervene. With businesses already struggling under heavy taxation and competition from the illicit market, this increase could be devastating.
To combat this, California NORML is sponsoring AB 564 (Haney), a critical bill that aims to stop this harmful tax hike. By attending Lobby Day, you’ll have the chance to meet directly with your elected representatives and demand fairer policies for cannabis consumers and businesses alike.
What to Expect at Lobby Day
This is more than just a day of meetings—it’s a structured and impactful event designed to educate, engage, and empower participants to make a real difference.
Morning Session (10 AM – 12 PM)
- Arrive at the Capitol Event Center (1020 11th St., Sacramento) and check in.
- Enjoy coffee, donuts, and snacks while networking with fellow advocates.
- Participate in a legislative overview and advocacy training session to prepare for meetings with lawmakers.
- Receive personalized afternoon appointment schedules to meet with your district’s representatives.
Afternoon (1 PM – 5 PM)
- 1 PM: Gather for a group photo on the Capitol steps—a visual show of strength and solidarity.
- 1:30 – 5 PM: Head into the Capitol for one-on-one meetings with legislators and their staff to discuss cannabis-related legislation, including AB 564 and other pressing bills.
Evening Reception (5 PM – 7 PM)
- After a day of advocacy, unwind at Cafeteria 15L for a networking reception with food, drinks, and great company.
Why Your Participation Matters
Last year’s Lobby Day proved that community-driven advocacy makes an impact. Many of the bills that were discussed during the event—including the Cal NORML-sponsored cannabis café bill and extended compassion programs for medical patients—were ultimately signed into law. These victories were made possible because citizen advocates showed up and made their voices heard.
A post-event survey of 2024 Lobby Day participants revealed just how effective and rewarding the experience was:
- 81% found the experience empowering.
- 88% found it educational and engaging.
- 92% said they would return for another Lobby Day.
- 69% felt their voices were heard regarding cannabis legislation.
- 77% said Cal NORML made it easy to be an effective citizen lobbyist.
Beyond the numbers, participants reported that they built valuable connections, reconnected with industry peers, and gained confidence in advocating for cannabis rights.
How You Can Take Action Now
Whether you’re a medical patient, a recreational consumer, a business owner, or an advocate, your presence at Lobby Day is essential. We need to show legislators that the cannabis community is united, informed, and ready to fight for fair policies.
Sign up to attend and let California NORML & ASA schedule your legislative meetings: https://eventhi.io/events/cal-norml–asa-annual-lobby-day-11264
Sponsor the event and help ensure a strong turnout: https://www.canorml.org/sponsor-lobby-day-2025/
This is our opportunity to stand up against unfair taxation, advocate for consumer rights, and ensure the future of cannabis in California remains strong.
See you in Sacramento on March 24, 2025!
