Age: 38 Company: Duff Johnson Consulting Position: Co-owner But the long-time cannabis advocate knows the fight is far from over. “After legalization, the biggest obstacle is over-regulation,” Johnson says. “Too many government officials, and even industry participants, are seeking barriers to entry that hurt the ability of small farmers and mom-and-pop operations to succeed.” Johnson says he is battling for a future of legalized cannabis that resembles the microbrewery and local winery industries that have flourished in Oregon, avoiding a market dominated by just a few big businesses. Today, as director of New Approach Oregon, Johnson lobbies to protect and improve Oregon’s cannabis laws. He also owns and operates Duff Johnson Consulting, with his wife and fellow activist, Sarah Duff, assisting a variety of cannabis and ancillary businesses, including growers, clinics, dispensaries, conferences and blogs. “Too many people have thought of cannabis law reform as a joke, not understanding the major implications prohibition has had on individuals, communities and our nation,” Johnson says. “The tide has definitely turned quite a bit and we now see voters, politicians and policymakers take the issue much more seriously today.”