Monumental news! This just in: Despite the odds, SAM Hawaii defeated the de facto legalization (“decriminalization”) bill in the legislature that was destined to easily pass a month ago, just prior to SAM’s trip to the islands! Working with local community advocates and supportive legislators, SAM’s team, led by Patrick Kennedy and Kevin Sabet, held legislative briefings, met privately with the governor, held press conferences on multiple islands, and conducted numerous community meetings in the evenings. All credit must go, however, to the newly formed SAM Hawaii chapter who mobilized the community and held rallies and press availablities after our departure. A model of collaboration!