Frequently Asked Questions

Common concerns about cannabis use and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.

What is Marijuana Advocacy Group Inc

We are a disability focused advocacy and support organization that helps people navigate work, school, entrepreneurship, and life goals.

Yes, we started in the cannabis space and we are proud of that.

No, we are not only about weed.
If you are a person with disabilities who needs help dealing with systems that feel confusing or rigged we are here for you.

Who do you help

We help any person with disabilities.
That includes people who 

  • work or want to work in the cannabis industry

  •  want a job in any other field

  •  want to start a business

  •  need help dealing with state programs schools or service providers

  •  just need someone in their corner to make sense of the paperwork and the process

If you are not sure whether you qualify the answer is almost always yes reach out.

What kind of support do you provide

Depending on your situation we can help with things like

  • figuring out your goals and next steps

  • preparing for or dealing with programs like ACCES VR and other state or local services

  • reviewing letters emails and official documents so you actually understand what they mean

  • drafting emails and responses so you can advocate for yourself in your own voice

  • organizing your records and timeline so you are not getting pushed around by broken systems

  • basic career and business guidance especially around cannabis and creative work

If we cannot do something directly we will try to point you to someone who can.

Do you replace ACCESs VR or other state programs

No.
We are not a government agency and we are not a replacement for ACCESS VR or any other program.

Think of us as the people on your side of the table.

We help you understand what these programs are supposed to do, how to speak their language and how to push back when they fall short.

I had a bad experience with ACCES VR or another agency. Can you help?

That is exactly the kind of situation we are built for.
We can help you

  • write clear requests for records or explanations

  • organize your evidence and timeline

  • prepare complaints or appeals when needed

  • figure out realistic next moves so you are not stuck in place

We cannot promise a specific outcome, but we can promise you will not have to go through it alone or confused.

Do you give legal or medical advice

No.
We are not lawyers and we are not doctors or therapists.

We can help you understand what letters or reports are saying and help you prepare questions for your lawyer, doctor or therapist.

If we think you need professional legal or medical support we will be honest about that.

How much does it cost?

Right now our focus is on building a nonprofit that keeps services as free and accessible as possible.

some things may be free or donation based.

Some deeper work may have a fee so we can actually keep the lights on.

Either way we will talk about money up front and never surprise you.

Do you only help people in New York?

Our roots are in New York especially around state programs and the cannabis industry here.

If you are in New York we can usually be extremely specific.

If you are in another state we can still help with general strategy self advocacy language and organizing your story, but we may not know every rule in your area.

Can families or supporters reach out to you?

Yes.
If you are a parent, partner, friend or support person for someone with disabilities we can help you understand the system and how to back them up without speaking over them.
Whenever possible, we want the person with disabilities involved in the conversation, not spoken about like they are not in the room.

What if I am autistic, have ADHD or another invisible disability?

You definitely count! <3
You do not need a certain type of disability to deserve help or opportunity. 

If your brain works differently and the system keeps bouncing you around, you are exactly the kind of person we are here for.

How do I get started with you?

Reach out through the contact form on the site or send us an email.
Tell us

  • who you are

  • what you are dealing with

  • what you want to change

We will look it over and get back to you with next steps.

I am overwhelmed and don't even know what to ask. Can I still contact you?

Absolutely!

You do not need to show up with a perfect plan.

If all you can say is something like
“I know I am being treated unfairly and I am lost”

that is enough for us to start working with you.

Are you only for “serious cases” or big legal fights?

No.

Some people come to us when everything is on fire.

Some people come to us before things explode.

Both are fine!

If something feels off and you want help before it becomes a crisis we are happy to step in early.

What services does MAG provide?

Marijuana Advocacy Group Inc. provides a wide range of services designed to empower, support, and uplift individuals—especially people with disabilities—within the cannabis industry. Our mission is rooted in accessibility, inclusion, and justice. Here’s an overview of our core services:

🌱 Expert Education Programs
In-depth cannabis education tailored for all experience levels
Courses on cannabis science, compliance, accessibility, and entrepreneurship
Workshops and webinars led by advocates and industry experts

⚖️ Advocacy & Policy Engagement
Direct lobbying for disability rights within the cannabis industry
Public policy campaigns focused on equity, inclusion, and licensing reform
Representation at local and state cannabis hearings and advisory boards

💬 Personalized Guidance
One-on-one mentorship and career coaching
Business development support for aspiring entrepreneurs
Navigation assistance for applications, licenses, and compliance

🧩 Supportive Community Network
Peer groups and mentorship connections
Inclusive events, forums, and panels
Safe spaces for sharing stories, advice, and resources

🎯 Accessibility Audits & Consulting
Help cannabis businesses become ADA-compliant
Training and tools to build inclusive hiring practices
Disability-centered feedback and improvement strategies

🤝 Partnerships & Sponsorship Opportunities
Collaborations with dispensaries, advocacy groups, and educational institutions
Custom sponsorship packages with benefits for partners
Joint programs to expand opportunities for people with disabilities

How does cannabis help individuals with disabilities?

Cannabis can offer a range of potential benefits for individuals with disabilities—both medically and socially. While effects vary by person and condition, here are some of the key ways cannabis may help:

🌿 1. Pain Management
Many people with physical disabilities experience chronic pain. Cannabis—especially strains rich in THC and CBD—has been shown to help reduce:
Neuropathic pain
Muscle spasms
Inflammation
Joint and nerve-related discomfort

🧠 2. Mental Health & Emotional Support
Living with a disability often includes mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and social isolation. Cannabis may help:
Reduce anxiety and panic symptoms
Improve mood and emotional regulation
Support better sleep, which is vital for mental health

♿ 3. Muscle Control & Spasticity
Individuals with conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy, or spinal cord injuries may experience relief from:
Muscle spasms
Stiffness
Tremors
Involuntary movements
Cannabis, especially with higher CBD levels, has been used to help calm these symptoms.

🌬️ 4. Appetite, Digestion, and Nausea
For those with gastrointestinal issues, feeding tubes, or medications that suppress appetite, cannabis can:
Stimulate appetite ("the munchies")
Reduce nausea and vomiting
Help maintain healthy weight and nutrition

🧩 5. Cognitive & Sensory Regulation
Some individuals with autism or sensory-processing disorders report benefits such as:
Calmer mood
Less sensory overload
Improved focus and emotional regulation
Note: These uses are still being researched and are often anecdotal.

🛡️ 6. Increased Sense of Autonomy & Well-Being
Cannabis can provide a sense of control over one’s body, symptoms, and healing process. For many, it represents:
An alternative to addictive or ineffective medications
A way to participate in self-care and advocacy
A form of empowerment in a system that often overlooks disabled voices

⚠️ Important Considerations
Always consult with a medical professional before starting cannabis, especially if you take other medications or have complex conditions.
Effects can vary greatly; not everyone responds positively to cannabis.
Legal access may vary by state or region.

Can I access resources for cannabis education through MAG?

You can access cannabis education resources through Marijuana Advocacy Group Inc. (MAG) in several accessible, supportive, and empowering ways. Here's how:

📚 1. Online Education Portal (Coming Soon)

Access digital courses, webinars, and downloadable guides on:

Cannabis basics & plant science

Disability rights and cannabis access

Legal compliance and licensing

Advocacy, employment, and entrepreneurship

🔐 Members get early or exclusive access to special content and expert Q&As.

🧑‍🏫 2. Live Workshops & Training Events

MAG regularly hosts:

In-person and virtual workshops

Guest lectures with cannabis professionals and disability advocates

Interactive sessions on navigating industry challenges

 🗓 Stay tuned to our events calendar or subscribe to our newsletter to get updates!

🤝 3. One-on-One Guidance

We offer personalized support through:

Mentorship and coaching sessions

Help understanding laws, applications, and business steps

Tailored recommendations based on your goals and needs

📩 Reach out to us via email or our website to schedule your personalized session.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. Community Forum & Support Groups

Join our supportive network to:

Ask questions, share stories, and learn from peers

Exchange tips, insights, and educational materials

Connect with others navigating the cannabis space with disabilities

🔗 5. Resource Library

We’re building a growing collection of:

Articles, research studies, and legislation updates

How-to guides on accessibility, advocacy, and cannabis use

Tools for caregivers, patients, and professionals

🚀 How to Get Started

1. Visit our website at marijuanaadvocacy.org

2. Join our mailing list or become a member

3. Connect with us on social media for real-time updates

4. Contact us directly to ask questions or request specific materials

How can I get involved with MAG?

You can get involved by attending our events, volunteering, or reaching out via email at info@marijuanaadvocacy.org.