Federal Affairs Legislative Internship, Summer 2026

Who We Are:

The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) addresses the harms of drug use and drug criminalization through policy solutions, organizing, and public education. We advocate for a holistic approach to drugs that prioritizes health, social supports, and community wellbeing. DPA opposes punitive approaches that destabilize people, block access to care, and drain communities of resources. We believe that the regulation of drugs should be grounded in evidence, health, equity, and human rights. In collaboration with other movements, we change laws, advance justice, and save lives.

DPA has 40 staff across the U.S. an annual operating budget of approximately $12 million, and 200,000 members, activists, and supporters. The organization has a solid track record of success at the local, state, and federal levels and consistent visibility in prominent media and policy circles.

Recognizing the broad reach of the drug war, DPA works across issue areas to engage more deeply with organizations and leaders in immigration, family policing, education, reproductive justice, housing, and other aligned spaces. This commitment to building power across movements and building a base contributes to and works in tandem with DPA’s work on policy and legislative change.

The Position

In our Federal Affairs Office, interns conduct legislative and policy research; monitor Congressional hearings; draft fact sheets and other written materials on a wide range of federal drug policy reform issues;  track and analyze federal legislation; participate in internal and external meetings, including Congressional meetings; assist in planning meetings and convenings; monitor federal drug policy activities; conduct outreach to partners and allies; and perform various administrative tasks. 

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be:

• Current student pursuing a bachelor’s degree/Master’s Degree.
• Must demonstrate strong interest in DPA’s work to end the drug war.
• Solid written, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite is preferred.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit the following:

1. Your resume.
2. A cover letter

About Internship Program:

DPA’s remote internships are designed to provide an integrated and educational experience for those interested in learning about drug policy. The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) addresses the harms of drug use and drug criminalization through policy solutions, organizing, and public education.

This is an unpaid remote internship. At this time, we are only able to accept interns who can get academic credit or who have secured external funding.

This flexible, remote-friendly internship is designed to fit your academic schedule and help you grow your professional network and portfolio.  Gain hands-on experience working with passionate drug policy experts on meaningful projects. You will also develop real-world skills in communication, time management, and advocacy.

Our summer internship program begins in June 2026 and runs for approximately eight to twelve weeks.

Interns may work up to 20 hours per week. The exact schedule will be set collaboratively between the intern and their supervisor. 

Equal Opportunity

Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. DPA encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, ethnicity, personal appearance, political affiliation, family responsibility, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status and record of arrest or conviction.  Drug Policy Alliance is particularly interested in hiring people who have been adversely affected by the war on drugs.