COLUMBUS, Ohio — The state has chosen the first superintendent to lead the new Division of Cannabis Control, a department made following the legalization of marijuana in Ohio.
James V. Canepa’s appointment was announced Thursday by Department of Commerce director Sherry Maxfield. According to a release from the agency, the division will ensure the safety and regulation of both medical and non-medical cannabis.
Canepa will begin his new role on Jan. 1, 2024.
"Jim's proven leadership and innovative approach make him the perfect choice to navigate this new area of retail and regulatory responsibility," said Maxfield. “His diverse experience and impressive regulatory credentials will be instrumental in developing a non-medical cannabis program that aligns with the expectations of Ohioans.”
Before his appointment to the new division, Canepa served as the superintendent of the Division of Liquor Control for six years. He also worked as first assistant attorney general, chief counsel for the Ohio Department of Public Safety, deputy inspector general and chief of staff and legal affairs for the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.
Canepa said he is humbled by the opportunity to implement the first-of-its-kind program for the state.
“I’ve been fortunate to spend years working within both law enforcement and the retail industry. Both experiences will be central to the work that has already begun in this area inside the Department of Commerce,” he said.
Also assuming a leadership role within the Division of Cannabis Control is Greg McIlvaine, who served as the policy director for the Medical Marijuana Control Program.
"Greg's exceptional performance in his current role and his transition into another leadership position will help us develop a new division that Ohioans understand and trust,” Maxfield added.
Deputy superintendent of the Division of Liquor Control, Paul Kulwinski, will serve as the interim superintendent of that division.
