Honoring the Arizona Cannabis Bar Association’s (ACBA) presentation on the current state of cannabis social equity with one of eight Presidential Awards for superior quality, the State Bar of Arizona gathered to hear ACBA President Gary Smith deliver it at its annual convention.
Representing the Arizona Cannabis Bar Association — which he also co-founded — Gary outlined the history of cannabis legalization in Arizona, as well as the social equity licensing eligibility requirements intended to help those disproportionately impacted by the enforcement of previous cannabis laws.
He highlighted significant racial disparities in arrests throughout Arizona, contrasting data from the American Civil Liberties Union with the Arizona Department of Health Services’ map of ZIP codes eligible for the social equity program before addressing the legal challenges filed against the social equity program before the 26 social equity licenses were ultimately granted.
Gary, who also serves on the board of the Arizona Cannabis Chamber of Commerce, frequently shares his far-reaching cannabis law insights with media and industry groups. He assists cannabis clients in uncovering opportunities, overcoming challenges and remaining compliant.