Berkeley Patients Group

History and Legal Challenges

• Proposition 215 in California allowed medical cannabis use in 1996.
• BPG was founded in Berkeley, California in 1999 by Jim McClelland and others.
• BPG faced raids, criminal prosecutions, and asset seizures over the years.
• Measure JJ in 2008 allowed BPG to operate legally in Berkeley.
• Federal prosecutions led to location changes for BPG.
• The Rohrabacher–Farr amendment in 2014 helped BPG avoid eviction threats.
• Experienced a federal crackdown in 2012 and had to relocate due to pressure from federal authorities.
• Engaged in legal disputes over compliance with state and federal laws.

Community Impact and Support

• Received community support during challenging times.
• Engaged in initiatives to support low-income patients.
• Played a role in shaping local regulations on medical marijuana.
• Garnered support from veterans’ organizations.
• Engaged in activism to promote access to medicinal cannabis.

Activities and Industry Recognition

• BPG engaged in advocacy to defend its activities.
• The group provided free cannabis for patients in need.
• BPG members organized 420 events in Berkeley.
• Involved in creating Americans for Safe Access.
• Advocacy at the federal level by Etienne Fontan.
• Featured in various publications as a pioneer in the cannabis industry.
• Recognized for compassionate care and advocacy.
• Contributed to the evolution of medical cannabis regulations.
• Acknowledged for its role in promoting the benefits of cannabis.
• Considered a key player in the cannabis community.

Dispensation of Cannabis and Participation in Scientific Research

• BPG provided cannabis for medical purposes.
• The group operated as a certified B Corporation.
• Sales were opened to non-patients in 2018.
• BPG aimed to create a safe environment for patients.
• Legislation initially hindered proper business operations.
• 350 BPG patients participated in a Cannabis study in 2009.
• The study focused on Cannabis as a substitute for alcohol and drugs.
• BPG contributed to scientific research on medical cannabis.
• The group supported research on the benefits of Cannabis.
• BPG’s participation in research aimed to advance medical knowledge.

Advocacy Efforts and Research

• Engaged in research on the medical benefits of cannabinoids.
• Advocated for the use of cannabis as a substitute for alcohol and other drugs.
• Supported initiatives for global access to medicinal cannabis.
• Participated in lobbying efforts for cannabis policy reform.
• Contributed to the scientific understanding of cannabis for medical purposes.

Berkeley Patients Group Data Sources