High Times Partners With Last Prisoner Project on Justice Campaign

High Times has formalized a long-term partnership with the Last Prisoner Project, the nonprofit focused on cannabis criminal justice reform, marking one of the industry's most prominent media platforms committing sustained editorial resources to the incarceration issue.

The collaboration will center prisoner stories in High Times' editorial coverage while directing readers to advocacy opportunities and direct support mechanisms for those still serving sentences for cannabis offenses. The partnership structure allows LPP to leverage High Times' monthly reach of millions of cannabis consumers.

"This isn't a one-off campaign," the organizations indicated in announcing the partnership. The ongoing nature distinguishes it from typical advocacy partnerships, which often focus on single events or awareness months.

The Incarceration Gap

More than 40,000 people remain incarcerated on cannabis-related charges in the United States, according to LPP estimates, even as legal cannabis sales topped $30 billion in 2023. The disconnect between a booming legal industry and ongoing imprisonment has become a central tension in legalization debates.

Last Prisoner Project has facilitated the release of more than 40 individuals since its 2019 founding, providing legal assistance, reentry support, and advocacy for sentence commutations. But the organization has consistently emphasized that media attention remains crucial for maintaining pressure on prosecutors and parole boards.

High Times brings significant reach to that effort. The 50-year-old publication has evolved from counterculture magazine to industry trade publication, now operating events, business ventures, and digital platforms alongside its print publication.

Industry Response to Justice Issues

The partnership comes as cannabis businesses face increasing scrutiny over their engagement with criminal justice reform. Several state legalization measures now include social equity provisions, and companies increasingly face pressure from advocates to support expungement and clemency efforts.

Some major operators have established their own grant programs or partnerships with justice organizations. Curaleaf, Trulieve, and other multi-state operators have contributed to LPP and similar groups, though critics argue industry donations remain small relative to company revenues.

The High Times partnership takes a different approach—using editorial platform rather than direct funding to advance the cause. The model could influence how other cannabis media outlets engage with advocacy organizations.

What's Next

High Times will feature regular prisoner profiles, updates on clemency cases, and calls to action for readers. The publication plans to integrate LPP content across its print magazine, website, and social media channels.

The organizations haven't disclosed financial terms of the partnership or whether it includes advertising or sponsorship elements. LPP operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies on individual donations, foundation grants, and corporate partnerships.

For readers looking to support clemency efforts, LPP maintains an active roster of cases where public pressure can influence outcomes. The organization's website includes letter-writing campaigns, petition drives, and direct donation options for individual prisoner support.

The partnership launches as several high-profile clemency cases gain traction, including ongoing efforts to secure presidential pardons for federal cannabis offenders serving lengthy mandatory minimum sentences.

This article is based on original reporting by hightimes.com.