Top New York Cannabis Regulator Resigns

OG article by Graham Abbott

December 13, 2025

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has requested the resignation of Felicia A.B. Reid, the Acting Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Reid stepped down immediately on Monday, following the OCM's last-minute withdrawal of an investigation into Long Island-based licensee Omnium Health. The probe accused the company of illegally renting its license and space to unrelated entities, allowing unlicensed cannabis distribution. OCM Deputy Counsel James Rogers, who led the investigation, was also terminated.

Governor Hochul stated, “Too often, the Office of Cannabis Management has stood in the way of the market realizing its potential, including most recently in the case of a pending compliance action that it has had to withdraw.” She emphasized that New York’s cannabis market holds enormous potential to create jobs, generate revenue, and build prosperity in communities long excluded from the economic mainstream. Realizing this requires strong leadership, deep regulatory understanding, and commitment to the state’s people.

Susan Filburn, the OCM Chief Administrative Officer, will assume the role of Acting Executive Director. Hochul previously criticized the industry’s rollout as a “disaster,” citing slow licensing and unregulated sales, and ordered a comprehensive audit of the OCM. Reid took over after inaugural Director Chris Alexander resigned last May amid similar criticisms.