Why Equity Without Accessibility Isn’t Equity at All

When people talk about equity in the cannabis industry, they usually mean race, gender, or economic status. And while those issues are critically important, one group continues to be overlooked again and again: people with disabilities. At Marijuana Advocacy Group Inc., we’re here to say: cannabis policy reform must include disability rights and accessibility — or it’s not real reform.

♿ The Invisible Stakeholders

People with disabilities are one of the largest minority groups in the United States. Many rely on cannabis for relief from chronic pain, neurological conditions, mental health issues, and other disabling health concerns. Others are eager to work, own, or innovate within the cannabis space. And yet:

There are no clear federal or state-level policies that prioritize accessible licensing, dispensary environments, or employment programs.

Disability is rarely mentioned in social equity language in cannabis legislation.

Many government and nonprofit programs designed to support “marginalized communities” don’t include disabled individuals — even when they should.

This lack of inclusion isn’t just disappointing — it’s discriminatory.

🔎 What Needs to Change

We’re calling for comprehensive, disability-informed policy reform at the state and federal level. That includes:

✅ Accessible Licensing Programs – Streamlined, simplified, and ADA-compliant application processes for cannabis entrepreneurs with disabilities.

✅ Inclusion in Social Equity Definitions – People with disabilities must be explicitly named and prioritized in equity frameworks, alongside other marginalized groups.

✅ Workforce Integration – Mandates or incentives for cannabis companies to train and hire qualified individuals with disabilities.

✅ Facility Compliance – Enforceable standards for dispensary accessibility and patient support.

✅ Disability Advocates at the Table – Representation in cannabis advisory boards, commissions, and regulatory development.

📣 Your Voice Matters

Policymakers need to hear from you. Whether you're a consumer, patient, job-seeker, or advocate — your lived experience is powerful. Let them know that cannabis laws without disability equity are outdated, unjust, and unacceptable.

We’re currently drafting proposals and gathering testimonials to present to legislators in New York and beyond. Want to help? Reach out — your story could drive real change.

💬 Join the Movement

Policy is not just paperwork. It's personal. It determines who gets access, who gets funded, who gets protected, and who gets left behind.

We're fighting to make sure no one gets left behind.

Let’s work together to create policies that don't just legalize cannabis — but liberate opportunity for all.

~ Marijuana Advocacy Group Inc.

Advocacy. Education. Access. Inclusion.