California Cannabis Advocacy Wins and Future Directions

In less than one year, the California Cannabis Operators Association (CaCOA) has established itself as the largest cannabis industry association in California. It represents 475 licenses across the supply chain and 300 operators managing over 200 retail locations in 125 municipalities. Our reach is substantial: we serve communities representing 50% of California's population and 85% of authorized local markets.

What We Accomplished in 2025

Thanks to the collective strength of our members, we successfully rolled back a harmful cannabis excise tax increase. This increase threatened the viability of the legal market, putting consumers and community programs that rely on these funds at risk. Furthermore, we closed the loophole that allowed intoxicating hemp products to undermine public health and safety while evading taxes and regulations. Additionally, we secured new enforcement tools to combat illicit cannabis sales on online platforms.

These victories resulted from strategic, data-driven advocacy grounded in real impact analysis from our membership. Our approach ensures that we focus on the most pressing issues facing the cannabis industry.

What We're Watching in 2026

Leadership changes in Sacramento will reshape our approach. With a new Senate President Pro Tem and anticipated shifts in committee leadership, we are reevaluating relationships and refining our strategy. We are also monitoring potential changes at the Department of Cannabis Control. These developments could significantly impact our advocacy efforts and the overall landscape of the cannabis industry in California.

Should we focus on retail expansion? Local government engagement? Illicit market enforcement? Your voice matters. We rely on member participation—from targeted calls to action to specific market data—to make our advocacy effective.

Watch the webinar and share your thoughts today!

The Importance of Community Engagement

Engaging with the community is crucial for the success of our advocacy efforts. By fostering relationships with local governments and stakeholders, we can ensure that our initiatives align with the needs of the communities we serve. This engagement is vital to building a sustainable, thriving cannabis market in California.

Education plays a significant role in our advocacy. By providing resources and information to our members and the public, we can promote a better understanding of the cannabis industry. This understanding is essential for dispelling myths and misconceptions that may hinder progress.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

As we look ahead, we must remain vigilant about the challenges facing the cannabis industry. Regulatory changes, market fluctuations, and public perception can all impact our efforts. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. By staying informed and adaptable, we can navigate these complexities effectively.

The California Cannabis Operators Association is committed to advocating for a robust and sustainable cannabis industry. Our recent victories demonstrate the power of collective action and strategic advocacy. As we move forward, we invite all members to engage actively in our initiatives. Together, we can shape the future of cannabis in California.

Not a CaCOA member? Join the conversation.