Policy Pavilion

Legalize it.

The Policy Pavilion is your hub for all things related to cannabis legalization and policy. Join us for substantive discussions on state and federal law. See our 2025 schedule below. All sessions in the Policy Pavilion will have ASL interpretation.

2025 Schedule

Friday, July 18

4:30pm

Breaking the Block: The Harris Rider & Advocacy in the DMV  

Learn how the Harris Rider blocks D.C. from regulating cannabis sales — and what you can do about it. This workshop breaks down the impact of the Harris Rider and shares tools to effectively lobby lawmakers and push for real cannabis reform. 

5:00pm

Overdose Training & Harm Reduction Tools with SSDP

This workshop is for any one who wants to learn more about harm reduction and the role you can play in overdose prevention! Participants will learn the basics of naloxone, the dos and don’ts of its use, the technicalities of consent as part of the process, and other harm reduction techniques. Please come prepared with questions as there will be time to hear from the SSDP Team! All those who complete the workshop will receive one of our new SSDP HOPE Kits.

5:45pm

Speak Up, Spark Change: How to Lobby for Cannabis Reform

Want to make a difference in cannabis policy? Learn how to effectively engage with legislators and shape the future of cannabis policy through informed, strategic advocacy. Explore the do’s and don'ts of lobbying, how to share your story, and how to push for real change—whether you’re a patient, advocate, or business owner.

6:15pm

High Stakes: Congress and the Future of Federal Cannabis Law

Over the past decade and half, 24 states legalized marijuana for adult use, yet it remains illegal at the federal level and Congress may even be on the verge of recriminalizing hemp derivatives, such as Delta 8 products.This panel will provide an overview of various marijuana-related bills in Congress, an update on Biden’s proposal to reschedule marijuana at the federal level, and ips on how the public y can get involved to make sure federal marijuana reform prioritizes those who have been most harmed by criminalization.

7:15pm

Free Market Cannabis: The Case Against License Caps

This panel tackles the question, "Should state governments limit the number of Cannabis business licenses or grant licenses to anyone with a viable business plan?" Speakers discuss arguments for and against license caps. Speakers promote free market cannabis and cottage industry producers (home-based businesses).

Saturday, July 19

2:30pm

Record Sealing, Expungement, and a Second Chance

The Second Chance Amendment Act is helping DC residents get their record sealed or expunged so that they can move forward with their lives. We will inform the audience how DC has taken a huge step forward by helping people convicted of most misdemeanors and some felonies receive an opportunity for record relief.

3:15pm

Cannabis & Civic Engagement: Igniting Change

This panel discussion will explore the evolving landscape of cannabis policy and the role civic engagement plays in shaping equitable regulations. Industry Leaders, Cannabis Business Owners, and Advocates will discuss strategies for community-driven reform, social equity, and expanding legal access. 

4:00pm

Legalization Under Fire: Emerging Threats to Progress

This discussion will put a spotlight on the increasing number of attempts to repeal or roll back cannabis policy reforms in states across the country. Panelists will illustrate how these threats are interconnected, how they aim to jeopardize past reform achievements and future prospects, and what advocates are doing to push back.

4:45pm

Protect the District 

Explores how D.C.’s fight for statehood and home rule is tied to cannabis justice. Learn how congressional interference blocks local control and how advocates are pushing for equity, autonomy, and restorative justice in the nation’s capital.

4:45pm

The Next Frontier: Opportunities and Challenges in the South

A robust discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing cannabis advocates in the South. 

5:30pm

From Boots to Bud: Veterans & Cannabis Access

Veterans are turning to cannabis for relief from pain, PTSD, and more. This session explores how vets across the country are accessing plant medicine and advocating for policy change and holistic healing.

6:15pm

Workforce Development - Employment Protections for Cannabis Consumers

This panel will address the origin of cannabis prohibition and how it still permeates the modern workplace.  We will work to educate attendees on best policies they can take back home to advocate for that will end discrimination of cannabis consumers in the workplace.

  • Christopher Cano, Director of Political & Legislative Affairs - SEIU Local 500

  • Justin Strekal

7:00pm

Capital Cannabis

DC's medical cannabis program is rapidly expanding. Join licensed DC entrepreneurs for a conversation on the past, present, and future of weed in the Nation's Capital.

  • Robbie Martin, President, DC Cannabis Business Association

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