If you are following regular cannabis industry news, then you may have come across a group called NORML. The acronym stands for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. And the group aims to do as its name states.
Let's check out NORML. Who they are, where they operate, and importantly, what they've achieved in the name of marijuana law reforms.
Who is NORML?
NORML is a non-profit organization based in Washington DC. Though it has its roots in America, the group has grown significantly to have pocket organizations around the world. This includes groups in Ireland, the UK, France, and New Zealand.
What's the Aim?
Why do we need NORML? Well, the group aims to move public opinion sufficiently to achieve the legalization of non-medical marijuana in the countries in which it acts. The goal is to have all penalties surrounding the responsible use of cannabis lifted.
The organization also wants to be a support network for those seeking the normalization of cannabis. It has goals to reform all laws to allow the responsible medical, therapeutic, recreational, agricultural, and industrial use of cannabis.
What has NORML Achieved?
Formed in 1970, the group has been consistently active in the media and in the public spreading its message.
In America, during President Obama's presidential tenure it sent a petition with over 100,000 signatures asking him to appoint a 'Drug Czar' that will treat drug abuse as a health issue rather than a criminal issue. The group actively wanted cannabis moved away from the 'War on Drugs' paradigm.
It also sought justice for athlete Michael Phelps; he was dropped from his contract with Kellogg's (NYSE:K) after pictures of him using a bong surfaced in the media. NORML began boycotting Kellogg's products and encouraged members of the public to do the same. Kellogg's reversed its decision.
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Through media outlets, marches, and attending political rallies, NORML has actively pushed for complete legalization of marijuana across the entire United States.
According to its blog, NORML's achievements are clear:
"When NORML was founded in late 1970, only 12% of the country supported legalizing marijuana; 88% were opposed to our goals. After decades of hard work by thousands of committed advocates like you, we have gradually won the hearts and minds of a majority of the public. Today, over 60% of adults nationwide support ending marijuana prohibition and establishing a regulated market where consumers can obtain marijuana in a safe and secure setting."
In 2018 alone, the group has pushed for over 70 pieces of legislation, though it expects that number to grow to 150 by 2019.
Featured Image: Depositphotos © Kagenmi
