ABOUT A.W.A.R.E.

Pushing for policy that ensures fair equity from all sectors.

Founded in response to a growing wave of misguided and overreaching regulation, A.W.A.R.E. brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates who are united in their belief that safe, legal access to plant-based wellness is a fundamental right. We work to ensure that policymakers, regulators, and the public are equipped with accurate information, grounded science, and the real-world insights of those on the front lines of innovation and commerce.

A.W.A.R.E.

Safeguards

small business owners and their teams by defending the long-term viability of the hemp, cannabis, and alternative industries.

Promotes

public well-being through evidence-based regulations and responsible policy frameworks that support safe access to hemp derived products.

Advocates

for fair, science-driven policymaking by actively engaging lawmakers, regulators, and the public to correct misinformation and push back against fear-based narratives targeting hemp, cannabis, and other natural alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions.

A.W.A.R.E. is committed to preventing youth initiation and experimentation with hemp products. We advocate for strict marketing guidelines—banning youth-oriented packaging, sponsorships, and influencer campaigns—and robust age-verification measures at retail to ensure hemp remains an adult-only market.

Federal oversight of hemp must be rooted in rigorous, evidence-based research. We call on the USDA, FDA, and Congress to craft balanced policies that support safe, reliable hemp products while addressing concerns around contaminants, potency labeling, and product consistency for the more than 2 million Americans who rely on hemp for wellness benefits.

Adults deserve access to high-quality hemp formulations—from raw flower to full-spectrum tinctures—without undue restriction. We champion consumer choice by opposing blanket bans on certain cannabinoids or product formats and by supporting clear, transparent labeling so consumers can make informed decisions.

Ensuring fair market entry and clear, transparent guidelines is vital for independent hemp growers and neighborhood retailers to thrive. We advocate for straightforward, consistent rules and open access to market information—so smaller operators can plan, compete, and grow with confidence.

We advocate for straightforward, consistent rules and open access. By simplifying licensing and cutting red tape, we help these local businesses to continue to flourish and bring lasting economic benefits to their communities.

SB66 | Gave False Promise to a Safer Future

Before
After

HB445 | Handed it Back To Drug Dealers

// Why Join Us

Empower Hemp Access & Industry Growth

Meet Our National Partners

Don't DARE be A.W.A.R.E.

Stay at the forefront of every policy battle threatening hemp access—our newsletter delivers real-time regulatory alerts, legislative breakthroughs, and strategic analysis from Capitol Hill to your statehouse.

Media Inquiries

For prompt responses, all media inquiries should be directed to our Press team at

Join the Cause

When we fail to organize, we organize to fail. Join the fight—become a member today.
Our Mission

Advocating for wellness, access, rights, and education in Alabama

A.W.A.R.E. is a nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) nonprofit that protects public health while supporting responsible access to vape and hemp products. We work with regulators, researchers, and community leaders to advance clear, enforceable, evidence-based policy.

Focus Areas

Responsible access, smart regulation, safer communities

Adult harm reduction and access

We support policy that helps adults move away from combustible cigarettes while protecting youth and non-users.

Hemp economy and compliance

We advocate for a stable regulatory framework so Alabama growers and processors can operate responsibly and transparently.

Public health and community safeguards

We promote age enforcement, product standards, and clear labeling so consumers can make informed decisions.

Alabama Policy Watch

What we track in vape and hemp policy

Vape in Alabama

  • Federal oversight from the FDA for tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
  • State public health guidance from the Alabama Department of Public Health.
  • Tax and licensing touchpoints through the Alabama Department of Revenue.

Hemp in Alabama

  • State hemp program administered by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.
  • Federal framework from the USDA AMS Domestic Hemp Production Program.
  • Production data from the USDA NASS National Hemp Report.
Action Center

Four ways to take action today

Get policy alerts

Sign up for updates on hearings, rulemakings, and public comment windows.

Submit a public comment

Use our nonpartisan comment guides to weigh in on state and federal rules.

Share evidence with local leaders

Send a one-page issue brief to your city council or county commission.

Host a community briefing

Invite A.W.A.R.E. to present on harm reduction, hemp compliance, and consumer safety.

Evidence Base

Evidence first, always

Our policy positions align with high-citation evidence reviews and public health guidance. We encourage adults who smoke to consider harm reduction while prioritizing youth prevention and product safety.

Join A.W.A.R.E.

Build a safer, smarter framework for Alabama

Your membership or donation supports education, research summaries, and nonpartisan policy engagement across the state.

Scroll to Top