Alabama Cannabis Coalition Reflects on 2026 Legislative Session, Urges Voter Engagement Ahead of Primary | Press Release

Montgomery, AL — As the 2026 Alabama Legislative Session concludes on Sine Die, the Alabama Cannabis Coalition (ACC) is reflecting on key cannabis-related legislation while calling on citizens to become more engaged ahead of the May 19 primary election.

“The 2026 session made one thing clear—Alabama is still having the conversation, but we are not yet taking action,” said the Alabama Cannabis Coalition. “And for the citizens waiting on real reform, that delay has real consequences.”

Several bills highlighted both progress and ongoing challenges in cannabis and hemp policy.

The ACC expressed gratitude that SB1, sponsored by Senator April Weaver, did not advance. The bill would have restricted hemp-derived products to pharmacy-only sales and classified certain compounds as Schedule I substances.

The organization also voiced disappointment that HB14, sponsored by Representative Marilyn Lands, was never taken up in committee. The bill would have established a pathway for citizen-led ballot initiatives—something Alabama currently does not allow.

Additionally, the ACC noted relief that HB72, sponsored by Representative Patrick Sellers, did not move forward in the Senate after passing the House.

“Protecting children should never come at the cost of vague laws that risk overreach,” ACC stated. “We can do both—but we have to do it responsibly.”

Finally, the Alabama Cannabis Coalition expressed strong disappointment that SB285, sponsored by Senator Bobby Singleton, once again failed to advance.

“For the fifth year in a row, Alabama had the opportunity to reduce arrests for simple possession—and once again, that opportunity was left on the table,” ACC stated. “That’s not just policy, that’s people’s lives.”

With the legislative session now complete, the organization is shifting focus toward the 2027 session and urging citizens to take an active role in shaping policy.

“If lawmakers aren’t hearing from the people, nothing changes,” ACC said. “The May 19 primary is where voters turn frustration into action—and where this issue can finally move forward.”

The Alabama Cannabis Coalition is encouraging voters to confirm their registration status and engage candidates across executive, judicial, and legislative races on their positions regarding cannabis and hemp policy.

Media Contact:

Alabama Cannabis Coalition

H Marty Schelper 

alabamacannabiscoalition@gmail.com 

www.alabamacannabiscoalition.org