The Cole Memo

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) is facing renewed challenges in its efforts to stabilize and lead the state’s cannabis industry. According to reporting by the Boston Globe, David Lakeman, an official with the Illinois Department of Agriculture and the CCC’s unanimous choice for executive director, has declined the role and will remain in Illinois.

David O’Brien, president of the Massachusetts Cannabis Business Association, reportedly emphasized the urgency of filling the vacancy. “We were looking forward to having a new executive director hit the ground running,” he said. With significant regulatory tasks ahead—such as establishing cannabis cafes, refining testing standards, and finalizing governance policies—the CCC is under mounting pressure to provide consistent leadership.

While the CCC has not disclosed details of the failed contract negotiations with Lakeman, the agency expressed optimism about finding a permanent leader to address the pressing needs of Massachusetts’ cannabis market.

This story is still developing, and further updates are expected as the CCC continues its search for permanent leadership.