Press Release  Governor Healey Appoints New Cannabis Control Commissioners Following Major Reform Law 

Boston — Governor Maura Healey today announced the appointment of three new Commissioners at the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) tasked with implementing major reforms designed to strengthen oversight, improve accountability and support the continued growth of Massachusetts’ cannabis industry. Governor Healey has appointed Christopher Harding, Xiomara DeLobato and Anthony Wilson as Commissioners, and designated Harding as Chair. 

The appointments follow comprehensive cannabis reform legislation signed into law by Governor Healey last month that modernizes the structure of the CCC and makes the most significant updates to Massachusetts cannabis law since legalization. 

“The cannabis industry plays an important role in our economy, and this law gives us an opportunity to strengthen the Commission so it can better support businesses, workers and consumers,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This industry supports thousands of jobs and small businesses across Massachusetts, and it’s important that we have a regulatory structure that is effective, accountable and built to meet the needs of a growing industry. These appointees bring strong leadership and management experience, and I’m confident they will help move the Commission and industry forward.” 

The new law represents the most significant update to Massachusetts cannabis policy since legalization and is intended to strengthen oversight, improve accountability and support the long-term stability of the industry. The reforms restructure the CCC from a five-member body to a three-member commission and designate the Chair as the agency’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), giving the position direct authority over day-to-day operations, staffing and budgeting in order to create clearer leadership and stronger operational management.   

Christopher Harding has been appointed Chair of the CCC, bringing decades of leadership experience across state government and the private sector, with a background in organizational management, strategic operations and technology modernization. He currently serves as Chief of Staff and Undersecretary at the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), where he helps oversee strategic planning and operations across the largest secretariat in Massachusetts government. Harding previously served as Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) and was a founding member of the Cannabis Advisory Board, where he chaired the industry subcommittee. His background in operational leadership and organizational management will help guide the Commission through its next phase of reform and modernization. 

“I am honored to assume the role of Chair of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission at an important moment for the Commonwealth and the cannabis industry,” said Harding. “Throughout my service at the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and the Department of Revenue, I have focused on building strong public institutions, advancing accountability, and delivering results for the people of Massachusetts. I look forward to bringing that same commitment to the work of the Commission while strengthening transparency, supporting a safe and equitable cannabis marketplace, and working collaboratively with patients, communities, industry stakeholders, and public officials to ensure the Commission operates with integrity, stability, and public trust.” 

Xiomara DeLobato has been appointed as Commissioner with expertise in social justice following a career spanning economic development, workforce strategy and community engagement. DeLobato currently serves as 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 across higher education, nonprofit leadership and public service has focused on expanding opportunity and building stronger connections between communities and economic growth. Her collaborative leadership experience and longstanding work supporting underserved communities will bring an important perspective to the Commission’s work. 

“I am deeply honored by Governor Healey’s appointment and the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth as the Social Equity Commissioner on the Cannabis Control Commission,” said DeLobato. “This industry represents significant economic opportunity for Massachusetts, and I look forward to supporting the Commission’s next chapter with a focus on thoughtful governance, accountability, and expanding equitable access to opportunities 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 service to residents, businesses, and communities across the Commonwealth.” 

Anthony Wilson joins the CCC with extensive experience across cannabis law, municipal government and small business development. Throughout his career, Wilson has advised a wide range of cannabis operators, entrepreneurs and startups navigating Massachusetts’ regulatory landscape. In addition to his private practice, Wilson worked with municipalities on issues like economic development and organizational management through UMass Boston and previously served in senior municipal leadership roles in both Springfield and Cambridge, including as Associate City Solicitor and City Clerk. His experience working with cannabis businesses, local governments and emerging entrepreneurs' gives him a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the industry. 

“I am grateful to the Governor for the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth,” said Wilson. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to ensure Massachusetts remains a national leader in building a safe, well-regulated, and equitable cannabis market.” 

The law also modernizes Massachusetts cannabis regulations to better support businesses, workers and consumers in a growing industry. The reforms expand retail license caps, authorize new license categories including event based, research and limited delivery licenses, and update requirements for medical marijuana businesses.  

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

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

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