US (DC): New Executive Director announced by MPP

The Marijuana Policy Project ("MPP") announced that Adam J. Smith will join the organization as Executive Director. Smith, a 30-year veteran of the drug policy reform movement, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of advocacy successes that will further MPP's mission of ending cannabis prohibition and advancing sensible regulations nationwide.

"Adam's sharp insight, deep expertise, and visionary leadership will catalyze MPP's efforts to achieve transformative cannabis policy reforms at the local, state, and federal levels and advance justice, public health, and public safety. He has been engaged with cannabis policy reform efforts since before MPP's founding in 1995, and he continues to forge an inclusive, responsive vision for patients, consumers, and businesses," said Betty Aldworth, MPP's Board Chair. "Lauren Daly provided exceptional leadership throughout this transition, and thanks to the strong foundation she built, Adam and MPP's expert team are well-positioned to drive meaningful and lasting change."

"I'm honored and excited to join the dedicated team at MPP and to build upon the organization's extraordinary legacy in advancing sensible cannabis policy," said Adam J. Smith. "The cannabis landscape has transformed dramatically over the past 30 years, thanks in large part to MPP's leadership. Moving forward, we will continue fighting to ensure that no one, anywhere in the country, faces arrest or criminal penalties for cannabis use. At the same time, we'll address the critical task of transforming emerging and existing markets into well-regulated, accessible, and equitable systems. After nearly a century of failed prohibition, it's clear that the only effective path forward is to offer consumers a safer, economically vibrant, and environmentally responsible regulated marketplace. I'm deeply humbled to have the opportunity to lead the nation's most impactful organization in cannabis policy reform."

Lauren Daly, who has served as MPP's Interim Executive Director since January, will depart the organization this month as she relocates to Germany.

"It's been a tremendous privilege to serve as MPP's Interim Executive Director. I'm proud of what we accomplished during my tenure and look forward to cheering Adam on as he steps into this role," said Lauren Daly, MPP's Interim Executive Director.