Appointments are complex The Hemp Reform Act is signed into law Gov. Healy last month, which modernizes the CCC structure and makes the most significant updates to Massachusetts cannabis law since legalization.

“The cannabis industry plays an important role in our economy, and this legislation gives us an opportunity to strengthen the Commission so it can better support businesses, workers and consumers,” he said. Gov. Maura Healy. “This industry supports thousands of jobs and small businesses across Massachusetts, and it is critical that we have an effective, accountable and structured regulatory framework that meets the needs of a growing industry. These appointees have strong leadership and management experience, and I am confident they will help move the Commission and the industry forward.”

The new law represents the most significant update to Massachusetts hemp policy since legalization and is designed to strengthen oversight, improve accountability and support the long-term stability of the industry. The reforms would restructure the CCC from a five-member body to a three-member commission and appoint a chairman as the agency’s chief executive officer (CEO), giving the position direct authority over day-to-day operations, staffing and budgeting, with the goal of creating clearer leadership and stronger operational management.

Christopher Harding was appointed as CCC Chairman, bringing decades of leadership experience in public government and the private sector, with expertise in organizational management, strategic operations and technology modernization. He currently serves as Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary for the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), where he helps oversee strategic planning and operations for the largest secretariat in Massachusetts government. Harding previously served as Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) and co-founded the Cannabis Advisory Board, where he chaired an industry subcommittee. His training in operational leadership and organizational management will help the Commission to carry out the next phase of reforms and modernization.

“I am honored to take on the role of Chair of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission at an important time for the Commonwealth and the cannabis industry,” said Harding. “Throughout my tenure at the Massachusetts Health and Human Services Executive and the Department of Revenue, I have focused on building strong state institutions, increasing accountability, and achieving results for the people of Massachusetts. I look forward to bringing the same commitment to the work of the Commission by strengthening transparency, supporting a safe and fair cannabis market, and working with patients, communities, industry stakeholders and public officials to ensure that the Commission operates with integrity, stability and public trust.”

Xiomara DeLobato was appointed commissioner with a background in social justice after a career spanning economic development, workforce strategy and community engagement. DeLobato is currently vice president and chief of staff for the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, where she helps lead regional economic initiatives, business partnerships and workforce development efforts. Her experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and public service has focused on empowering and strengthening community connections and economic growth. Her co-leadership experience and years of work supporting underserved communities will bring an important perspective to the work of the Commission.

“I am honored by Governor Healey’s appointment and the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth as the Equity Commissioner for the Cannabis Regulatory Commission,” said DeLobato. “This industry represents a significant economic opportunity for Massachusetts, and I look forward to supporting the next chapter of the Commission with a focus on good governance, accountability, and expanding equitable access to opportunity and resources. Throughout my career, I have worked at the intersection of economic development, systems change, and community impact, and I am excited to bring that experience to this role in serving residents, businesses, and communities across the Commonwealth.”

Anthony Wilson joins CCC with extensive experience in cannabis law, municipal government and small business development. Throughout his career, Wilson has advised a wide range of cannabis operators, entrepreneurs and startups navigating the Massachusetts regulatory landscape. In addition to his private practice, Wilson has worked with municipalities on issues such as economic development and organizational management through UMass Boston, and previously held senior municipal leadership positions in Springfield and Cambridge, including as deputy city attorney and city clerk. His experience working with cannabis companies, local governments and start-ups gives him a keen understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the industry.

“I am grateful to the governor for the opportunity to serve the commonwealth,” he said Wilson. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to ensure that Massachusetts remains a national leader in creating a safe, well-regulated and fair cannabis market.”

The law also modernizes cannabis regulations in Massachusetts to better support businesses, workers and consumers in the growing industry. The reforms increase restrictions on retail licenses, allow new license categories, including event, research and limited delivery licenses, and update requirements for medical marijuana businesses.

In addition, the law establishes stronger financial liability protections for unpaid business debts and directs the Commission to conduct further research on cannabis use trends, tax policy and future regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Together, the reforms aim to support a safer, more transparent and more competitive cannabis market while ensuring that Massachusetts remains a national leader in cannabis regulation and innovation.

The chairman will be sworn in and will immediately begin overseeing the implementation of the reforms signed earlier this year.

Source: Mass.gov