Today, the New York State Senate confirmed John Kagia as Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), solidifying leadership of one of the nation’s largest, most profitable and equity-focused cannabis markets.
Kagia has guided New York’s cannabis market through a period of significant growth. Today, New York’s cannabis market supports 2,270 adult-use licenses, including 667 operational dispensaries, and has generated more than $3.2 billion in legal sales statewide.
“I am honored by the Senate’s confirmation and grateful to Governor Hochul, the Cannabis Control Board, our staff, and the stakeholders who have helped build New York’s cannabis market,” said John Kagia, Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. “Over the past 5 years, New York has built the nation’s most innovative cannabis framework, rooted in equity, public health, and economic opportunity. Together, we have made extraordinary progress, but our work is far from over. As this market continues to mature, we remain committed to strengthening the legal marketplace, supporting licensees across the supply chain, protecting consumers, and ensuring the benefits of legalization reach communities throughout New York State.”
Key accomplishments under Kagia’s leadership include:
- 56% of adult-use licenses awarded to Social and Economic Equity (SEE) applicants, exceeding New York’s statutory goal of 50%.
- Secured $10 million in funding for seed-to-sale tracking tags, compliance oversight, and data-driven regulatory tools.
- Community reinvestment funding increased from $5 million to $15 million, with 423 organizations applying for support in the current grant cycle.
- Continued expansion of New York’s regulated cannabis market while strengthening oversight, stakeholder engagement, and support for small business operators.
- 627 illicit shops closures across New York state in partnership with local law enforcement.
- Engaged 450+ youth, parents, educators, community leaders, and trusted adults in a comprehensive statewide listening tour, elevating the voices of community members to directly inform the agency’s public health and education initiatives.
- Launched the nation’s first state cannabis regulatory agency-led observational research study, examining the impact of cannabinoids on symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Initiated the implementation of landmark Medical Cannabis Program reforms under Senate Bill 3294-A, expanding patient access and modernizing program infrastructure to reflect the evolving needs of New York’s medical cannabis community.
“We congratulate John on his confirmation as executive director of the OCM. He brings crucial leadership at a critical time for New York’s cannabis market,” said Jessica Garcia, Chair of the Cannabis Control Board. “He has played a key role in guiding the industry’s development, with a clear focus on supporting equity, small businesses and licensees as they navigate this market. The Board looks forward to continuing our work with him to ensure growth remains stable, equitable, and accessible across New York.”
“The NYMCIA congratulates John Kagia on his confirmation as Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management. He is an experienced professional with extensive cannabis knowledge, and his track record at the Office—first as Director of Policy and then as Acting Executive Director—speaks for itself. We share Executive Director Kagia’s commitment to strengthening New York’s cannabis programs, enhancing market integrity, and ensuring access to safe and affordable products for adult-use consumers and patients statewide. While OCM has made significant progress on these fronts, there is still important work ahead, and we look forward to working together to build on that momentum.” said Don Williams, Chair, New York Medical Cannabis Industry Association (NYMCIA) and Government Relations, Curaleaf
“The Black Cannabis Industry Association congratulates John Kagia on his confirmation as Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. We are encouraged by this appointment and optimistic about the future of New York’s cannabis industry. This is an opportunity to strengthen equity, improve regulatory efficiency, and create a more sustainable marketplace for all stakeholders. BCIA looks forward to working collaboratively with Executive Director Kagia and OCM to ensure New York remains a national leader in cannabis reform and economic opportunity.” Said Black Cannabis Industry Association (BCIA)
“Congratulations to John Kagia on his appointment, this is exactly the kind of leadership this industry needs. I want to personally thank Governor Hochul and John for their continued commitment to ensuring minority-owned businesses have a real seat at the table. Appointments like this matter deeply to many of us. It signals renewed energy behind the equity promise New York made to its communities, and real momentum toward turning that promise into lasting access and ownership for founders who have historically been left out. The possibilities ahead feel significant — and with the right people in place, finally within reach.” Said Steven Acevedo, Founder and CEO of ACE Venture
“John has been instrumental in helping build New York’s cannabis program from the ground up. As a processor, we’ve benefited from his collaborative approach, commitment to licensee engagement, and leadership in implementing key systems and policies that have helped strengthen the industry. His deep knowledge of the market and dedication to its long-term success make him uniquely qualified to lead the Office into its next chapter. We congratulate John on his confirmation and look forward to the continued growth and success of New York’s cannabis industry under his leadership.” said Michael Geraci, CEO, All In One Processing
“Meeting John gave us a chance to connect in a meaningful conversation. He took the time to learn about what we’re building at Foy, especially our focus on clean, organic, functional edibles and intentional wellness. What stood out was his thoughtful approach to conversation and his willingness to explore ideas around how to help elevate the industry. His leadership, kindness, and grounded perspective are qualities that will continue to serve New York’s cannabis industry well as it grows. said Yon and Moose Haile Founders of Foy
“As one of New York’s first and only cannabis microbusinesses, Green Klub is proud to be helping shape the future of the state’s legal cannabis market. John Kagia’s confirmation as Executive Director is an encouraging milestone, and as a business owner, it is inspiring to see leadership that reflects the diversity of the entrepreneurs and communities participating in this industry. We look forward to partnering with OCM to build a sustainable and inclusive market where small businesses have the opportunity to grow and succeed.” said Angelo La Roche, Owner of Green Klub Dispensary
“As a staple point in the Rochester community being the 500th dispensary in NYS, we are vehemently excited to welcome John Kagia as the new Executive Director of the OCM. We’re eager to see the direction he guides our budding market in this new era of maturity. His confirmation as Executive Director from his experience as Director of Policy instills confidence and has us looking forward to a brighter future for the industry in NYS as a whole. From the Green Comfort team to John, congratulations and all the best!” said Tim Tanavung, CEO/General Manager of Green Comfort Dispensary.
As Executive Director, Kagia will continue leading efforts to strengthen New York’s legal cannabis market through regulatory modernization, public health education, market transparency, and stakeholder engagement. Building on the State’s nation-leading commitment to equity, consumer safety, and economic opportunity, OCM will remain focused on supporting a stable and sustainable marketplace, expanding opportunities for Social and Economic Equity licensees and small businesses, combating illicit market activity, and ensuring cannabis-generated revenue continues to benefit communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition.
The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) oversees the State’s medical, adult-use, and cannabinoid hemp programs. Guided by its core pillars — public health and safety, social and economic equity, community reinvestment, environmental sustainability, and consumer education — the Office works to advance a regulated cannabis marketplace rooted in transparency, accountability, and opportunity. Through licensing, enforcement, education, and industry support, OCM is committed to building a fair, sustainable, and responsible cannabis industry that benefits all New Yorkers.
Follow @nys_cannabis on social media for updates.
