Alabama Cannabis Coalition Opposes HB72 (2026) | Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alabama Cannabis Coalition Opposes HB72 (2026)

Legislation Expands Criminalization and Fails to Serve Public Interest

Montgomery, Alabama — The Alabama Cannabis Coalition (ACC) is issuing a public statement to clearly and unequivocally state that we do not support House Bill 72 (2026).

HB72, which overwhelmingly passed the Alabama House, represents yet another step toward expanded criminalization rather than meaningful, evidence-based reform. The bill raises serious concerns regarding proportionality, fairness, and the continued use of punitive policy approaches that fail to improve public safety or serve the best interests of Alabama citizens.

“The Alabama Cannabis Coalition strongly opposes HB72,” said H. Marty Schelper, Founder and President of the ACC. “This legislation continues a pattern of criminalizing citizens instead of addressing real policy failures with transparency, data, and compassion. Alabama deserves better than recycled enforcement-first solutions.”

The ACC believes public policy should prioritize:

Civil liberties and constitutional protections

Evidence-based public health and safety approaches

Decriminalization and sensible regulatory reform

Respect for citizens and patients impacted by outdated laws

HB72 moves Alabama further away from these principles.

As the bill advances to the Alabama Senate Judiciary Committee, the Alabama Cannabis Coalition encourages lawmakers to carefully consider the long-term consequences of this legislation and urges constituents to engage respectfully and constructively with their elected officials.

The Alabama Cannabis Coalition will continue to advocate for responsible cannabis policy reform that reflects facts, fairness, and the will of the people—not fear-based or punitive legislation.

Contact: H Marty Schelper

Alabama Cannabis Coalition alabamacannabiscoalition@gmail.com

Website: www.alabamacannabiscoalition.org