AB 564 (Matt Haney, SF) passed Assembly Appropriations Committee but the real work is begins now, according to Precision Advocacy President Amy O’Gorman.
“We’re in the final stretch of our fight to stop the 25% cannabis tax hike, and we’re working to generate as much ground support as possible.”
Here is the details on the work required, as sent by O’Gorman:
“While AB 564 (Haney) remains in play, thanks to today’s action by the Assembly Appropriations Committee, we are also working closely with his office to ensure the cannabis excise tax freeze is included in the final budget package, which must be approved by the Legislature by June 15. Lawmakers have told us directly: they need to hear from the licensees and local elected officials they represent—now. With so many competing priorities, the louder we are, the better our chances.
To maximize impact, we’re launching a wave of targeted letters from members to their state representatives.
CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR STATE REPRESENTATIVE AND WRITE IN SUPPORT OF AB 564
We’re also asking license holders to activate local allies—particularly elected officials and city staff who support them—to reach out to their state delegation and urge them to support a tax freeze in the final budget.
We only have a few days left to get this done. I’d be grateful if you could circulate the attached sample letter through your channels. I’m also happy to submit any completed letters on your behalf to ensure they get into the right hands.
Most budget negotiations will wrap up by the end of next week—so your help in emphasizing the urgency and importance of this effort would mean a lot.”
Dispensary license holders are being directly called upon to contact our legislature and oppose the excise tax increase July 1. The final budget will be submitted June 15, but negotiations are said to end next week. Act now.”
See also: Bill Halting Cannabis Excise Tax Increase Passes First Committee
