The New York State Senate has confirmed three key appointments to Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration, including the official appointment of John Kagia as Executive Director of the state’s cannabis regulatory agency.
The governor’s office recently announced that Kagia has been confirmed to lead the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), after serving as acting executive director since February. Before assuming the role, Kagia served as the agency’s director of policy and played a significant role in shaping New York’s legal cannabis framework.
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In a statement following his confirmation, Kagia said he was honored by the Senate’s approval and highlighted the progress made since New York legalized cannabis. He described the state’s regulatory model as one focused on equity, public health, and economic opportunity, while pledging continued efforts to strengthen the legal market, support licensed businesses, protect consumers, and ensure communities benefit from legalization.
Kagia inherits leadership of an agency that has faced scrutiny in recent years over enforcement actions against illicit cannabis operators and the implementation of licensing policies. His confirmation follows administrative changes made by Hochul late last year, including the removal of former interim Executive Director Felicia A.B. Reid and Deputy Counsel James Rogers.
The Senate also confirmed Terry O’Leary as commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES). O’Leary previously served as an assistant district attorney in Manhattan, director of the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement within the state Health Department, and executive deputy commissioner of DHSES for the past decade.
O’Leary said leading the agency was “the privilege of a lifetime” and emphasized his commitment to advancing public safety and strengthening emergency preparedness across New York.
Additionally, lawmakers confirmed Kathy Moser as commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation. Moser had been serving as acting commissioner since October and previously held leadership positions at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Open Space Institute.
Moser said she was grateful for the opportunity to oversee one of New York’s most treasured public assets, emphasizing the role of state parks in promoting affordability, wellness, recreation, and public access for residents and visitors alike.
The confirmations complete a trio of leadership appointments that Hochul’s administration says will help advance priorities in cannabis regulation, public safety, emergency management, environmental stewardship, and outdoor recreation across New York State.
