The majority of business owners see the cannabis industry as an uphill battle. The challenges that come with licensing, ordinances, predatory landlords, and regulations (just to name a few off an extensive list) are not for the faint of heart. These hurdles can turn people off to the idea of even starting, but Orlando Padilla from The Chronic took it all in stride. “Regardless of all the challenges, every obstacle has been a lesson learned and has ultimately leveled me up. I am very fortunate to be here, and am thankful for all the support and help from family and friends, as well as any and all assistance received from the city and state.”   Social equity has become a large part of the conversation within the cannabis industry and the California government. California’s Department of Cannabis Control has put forth efforts towards cannabis equity – an effort that supports people and communities harmed by cannabis criminalization. Ultimately, the goal is to lower the barriers of the industry for communities that were once targets of the War on Drugs.    The program has greatly helped those who have experienced a felony charge due to marijuana and is one of the main reasons The Chronic stands as a part of the El Sereno community today. “The representation of the Social Equity community is personal for me. Having experienced both the stigma and consequences of cannabis involvement, including incarceration and being labeled a felon, drives me to be deeply committed to supporting the Social Equity initiative. Landing these licenses and developing The Chronic is more than just business for me –  it’s vindication and validation for the path I chose.”    Padilla firmly believes that there is a critical need to create more support for license holders. “Access to capital and grants [are] essential, as well as developing a streamlined process for renewals. There needs to be waivers put in place to offset fees, and access to personnel that can guide both applicants and license holders through the process with ease.” Amidst the lack of support for those who participate in the Social Equity program, he feels that the taxes placed on business operators and consumers could be what weakens the cannabis industry and hopes that lawmakers begin to take action in creating a more sustainable system for this new industry to thrive.   The weight of being a participant in the cannabis industry is by no means lost on Padilla, but his responsibility to his community is what truly drives him. While he doesn’t feel any external pressure to show up, the ambitions around community comes from within. He feels that as a Los Angeles native he is obligated to create an environment that his local community is proud of because for him, The Chronic isn’t just a brand – it’s a movement. Padilla’s goals span way beyond the limits of his love of Los Angeles. He is building a legacy through excellence, innovation, and authenticity with his sights set on expanding this nationally and globally.    The upcoming year is critical for Padilla and his team at The Chronic. “Our focus remains on brand building and brand recognition, with a continuing commitment to enhancing the customer experience and their satisfaction. We’re also working on introducing our in-house product line, and we’re excited to unveil these new offerings later this year. Looking ahead to the next five years and beyond, our vision is to continue elevating our brand, and further cementing our position as a trusted name in cannabis.”   You can find out more about The Chronic and their offerings on their website or on Instagram.    The post Orlando Padilla and The Chronic: How a Cannabis Pioneer is Building a Legacy Through Social Equity and Community Commitment appeared first on LA Weekly.