What is the Alabama Cannabis Coalition?

We are the Alabama Cannabis Coalition (ACC) A grassroots movement dedicated to bringing real cannabis reform to the state of Alabama. Founded and led by H. Marty Schelper, we fight for the full decriminalization of cannabis, both medical and recreational, and for every Alabamian’s right to cultivate at home. We believe no one should face criminal penalties for a plant, and we are committed to seeing all past cannabis convictions expunged so that lives and communities can truly heal.

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​Our work is rooted in advocacy and public education. We know that change happens when people are informed and empowered, so we spend just as much time educating the public as we do lobbying lawmakers. Through rallies, Statehouse lobby days, community meetings, media outreach, and direct conversations with our neighbors, we work to spread the truth about cannabis, dismantle stigma, and shine a light on laws that harm our citizens and our economy.​

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We take a strong stance against half-measures and policies that benefit corporations and pharmaceutical interests over the people. This is why we oppose the federal government’s proposed reclassification of cannabis to Schedule III — a move we believe would pave the way for corporate takeover while doing nothing to protect our rights. Here in Alabama, we are fighting legislation like HB 445, which criminalizes smokable hemp and threatens to wipe out small businesses through harsh penalties and increased law enforcement crackdowns.

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​Political engagement is another cornerstone of our work. As a non-partisan organization, we publicly endorse candidates who share our vision for cannabis reform and have proudly supported voices across the political spectrum who stand for decriminalization, expungement, and the right to grow.

Beyond politics, we serve as a watchdog for the cannabis and hemp industries, warning the public about harmful laws, tracking enforcement trends, and ensuring that no community is left behind.​Since the passage of Medical Cannabis legislation on May 6, 2021, known as the Darren Wesley “Ato” Hall Compassion Act, we have spoken out against the unacceptable delays and mismanagement of its rollout. Patients in Alabama deserve better, and we will continue holding the system accountable until access is real and fair.​

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At the Alabama Cannabis Coalition, our mission is clear: to educate, to advocate, and to fight for comprehensive cannabis decriminalization in Alabama. We are powered by the people — passionate advocates, patients, small business owners, and everyday Alabamians who know this fight is about more than cannabis. It’s about justice, freedom, and the right to make our own choices.

Until those rights are protected, we will not stop.