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Former NCIA CEO Aaron Smith shares his insights after 20 years leading cannabis policy reform, reflecting on the evolution from medical advocacy to today's complex marketplace and the challenges of federal reform.

• The cannabis industry has seen remarkable progress over two decades, with support for reform growing from just two members of Congress to majorities in both chambers
• Current regulatory structures represent a compromise, not the alcohol-style regulation originally envisioned by advocates
• Complacency poses the biggest threat to cannabis reform, with a $40+ billion industry spending only about $4 million annually on federal lobbying
• Multiple competing trade associations dilute advocacy impact, though coordination is improving
• Banning hemp-derived cannabinoids doesn't advance marijuana legalization and may actually hinder progress
• Congressional dysfunction stems from primary election systems that reward partisan extremes over compromise
• The beverage segment represents one of the most promising opportunities for cannabis normalization
• Even struggling businesses should find ways to contribute to advocacy efforts

"Don't give up hope. If you're in this industry, I know it's super challenging, it's super frustrating, depressing at times. Take a breath, step back, see the progress we've made and realize the inputs that went into that progress. We have the resources to do a lot - find a way to invest in advocacy in a way that makes sense for you."

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