**NORML**
NORML, short for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, is a pioneering nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the legalization and responsible use of cannabis. Established in 1970 by Keith Stroup, a visionary attorney, NORML has been instrumental in shaping the discourse around cannabis policy in the United States. The organization was born out of the cultural and political upheaval of the late 1960s, a period marked by a growing awareness of the need for reform in drug laws.
The meaning of NORML has evolved alongside the changing tides of public opinion and legislation. Initially, NORML was a beacon for those seeking to challenge the status quo and push for the decriminalization of marijuana. As the cannabis industry has grown and matured, NORML’s role has expanded to include advocating for consumer rights, ensuring product safety, and promoting the economic and social benefits of legalization. Today, NORML remains a key player in the cannabis reform movement, leveraging its decades of experience to influence policy and public perception.
For further reading, you can explore NORML’s extensive resources or consult authoritative sources like MedPub and Wikipedia for comprehensive insights into cannabis reform.
The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML /ˈnɔːrməl/ ⓘ) is a social welfare organization based in Washington, D.C., that advocates for the reform of marijuana laws in the United States regarding both medical and non-medical use.
| Formation | 1970 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Keith Stroup |
| Legal status | 501(c)(4) organization |
| Headquarters | Washington, D.C., U.S. |
| Website | norml.org |
According to their website, NORML supports "the removal of all penalties for the private possession and responsible use of marijuana by adults, including cultivation for personal use, and casual nonprofit transfers of small amounts" and advocates for "the creation of a legal and regulatory framework for marijuana's production and retail sale to adults".
NORML also has a sister organization, The NORML Foundation, that focuses on educational efforts and providing legal assistance and support to people affected negatively by current marijuana laws. NORML maintains chapters in a number of US states as well as outside the US in countries such as Canada, France, New Zealand, and South Africa.




