OCM’s Acting Executive Director

John Kagia has been one of the most consequential behind-the-scenes architects of New York's cannabis market. As Director of Policy at OCM, he led the team responsible for policy development and implementation across the medical, adult-use, and cannabinoid hemp programs, and managed the development of research and data systems to measure and track industry performance. Where others talked about equity in the abstract, Kagia built the infrastructure to measure it. ECMA has supported John for this role since 2024 because of his deep understanding of the regulatory framework, operational expertise, and commitment to building a market defined by small businesses and equity. His recent elevation to Acting Executive Director marks a well-earned recognition of years of steady, data-driven work on behalf of the industry.

New York State Assembly, 77th District

Few lawmakers come to the table with the credentials Landon Dais does. An accomplished attorney, his work in the cannabis industry advanced marijuana legalization, workforce development programs, and criminal justice reform — work that earned him the NAACP Roy Wilkins Award and recognition as Pro-Bono Attorney of the Year for his efforts on marijuana arrests. Now, as the newly appointed Chair of the Assembly Cannabis Subcommittee, Dais brings that same on-the-ground expertise directly into the legislative process. He is a tireless advocate for ensuring that New York's cannabis market remains rooted in equity — and that the communities most harmed by prohibition are the ones who benefit most from legalization.

New York State Assembly, 127th District

Every cannabis bill that moves through the Assembly passes through Al Stirpe's committee. As Chair of the Assembly's Committee on Economic Development, Stirpe made cannabis a priority from the very start of his tenure, championing legislation, clearing bottlenecks, and making good on his commitment to advance bills that support a fair, functioning market. Focused on expanding businesses in the state, creating economic growth, and continuing stability, Stirpe understands that a well-regulated cannabis industry is an economic development issue — and he has the committee gavel to prove it.

Chief of Staff, Assemblymember Donna Lupardo

Amy Abatti is the kind of champion every industry needs and rarely gets: someone who does the hard work without seeking the spotlight. Working from Assemblymember Lupardo's office, she has been an unwavering advocate for New York's cannabis farmers — navigating the complex intersection of agriculture policy and cannabis regulation with an expertise that is widely respected across the Assembly. She has been an unsung force behind some of the most farmer-friendly provisions in New York cannabis law, and her deep policy knowledge has made her an indispensable resource for legislators and industry stakeholders alike.

OCM Chief Medical Officer

Dr. June Chin has spent over two decades making the case that cannabis belongs in medicine — not on the margins of it. A nationally recognized expert in cannabis therapeutics and integrative medicine, she founded and operated integrative medical clinics across California, New York, and Connecticut, and played a key role in developing internationally accepted cannabinoid formulations, clinical protocols, and provider training programs. Now, as OCM's Chief Medical Officer, she is working to keep cannabis medical in an era of legalization — pushing to modernize the medical program, expand patient access, and ensure that healthcare providers have the tools and education they need to guide their patients. Growing up in the Bronx shaped her commitment to meeting people where they are — and making sure no one is left behind in this new era of cannabis care.