by SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Will Boyd has earned the endorsement of the Alabama Cannabis Coalition, a leading grassroots group advocating for cannabis reform. The endorsement comes as Boyd introduced his “Hybrid Hemp Plan”, a broad strategy to undo Alabama’s ban on smokable hemp and restore access to legal cannabis-derived products.
“We are so grateful to finally have a voice of reason for the freedom of the citizens of Alabama to have ‘legal’ access to hemp and cannabis,” said H. Marty Schelper, founder of the Coalition.
The endorsement follows months of backlash over the Alabama Legislature’s move to ban smokable hemp and restrict CBD and Delta THC sales. Boyd sharply criticized the bill passed earlier this year, calling it a blow to farmers, small businesses, and individual rights.
“What happened in the Alabama House wasn’t just bad policy—it was a direct hit to farmers, patients, veterans, and our economy,” Boyd said. “It ignored science and punished small businesses while silencing the will of the people. As governor, I will not let that stand.”
Boyd’s plan includes repealing the smokable hemp ban, raising THC limits, restoring online sales, and reducing regulatory barriers for hemp entrepreneurs. He also promised to direct agencies to revise enforcement policies, pursue legal challenges modeled on wins in Texas and New York, and build a statewide coalition for reform.
“This endorsement means a great deal to me,” Boyd added. “The Coalition has fought tirelessly for patients, veterans, small business owners, and families across our state—often without thanks. I’m proud to stand with them.”
Beyond policy changes, Boyd’s plan includes pardons for low-level marijuana offenses, support for expungement and record sealing, and a ballot initiative to let voters decide cannabis laws directly. If lawmakers block the effort, Boyd said he would call a special session to force the issue.
“This plan is more than a policy—it’s a promise,” Boyd said. “A promise to use every tool I’ll have if elected governor to end this ban and deliver real reform.”
