Cannabis Policy Project Appoints Adam Smith as Executive Director to Lead Reform Efforts Amid Complex Cannabis Policy Landscape

The Marijuana Policy Project (MPP), a leading national cannabis reform organization known for spearheading state-level legalization efforts for nearly three decades, has appointed Adam Smith, founder of the Alliance for Sensible Markets, as its new Executive Director. The move signals a renewed focus on strategic cannabis policy reform at both state and federal levels, during what advocates describe as one of the most uncertain and pivotal times in the history of American marijuana legislation.

Smith succeeds interim director Lauren Daly, who took on the leadership role following the departure of longtime MPP executive Matthew Schweich. Under Daly’s stewardship, the organization maintained its legislative momentum, positioning itself for this new chapter of executive leadership.

Adam Smith Brings Decades of Experience in Cannabis Policy and a Vision for State-Led Reform

Smith’s appointment comes as cannabis reform faces renewed urgency across the country. With 24 states now allowing adult-use marijuana and more considering medical or recreational legalization, the U.S. remains in a jurisdictional limbo where federal prohibition clashes with a patchwork of state laws.

In this complex environment, Smith aims to reinforce MPP’s core mission: to end cannabis prohibition and advocate for laws that prioritize justice, public safety, and equitable access. His background includes extensive work advocating for interstate cannabis commerce, a crucial next step for ensuring that legacy producers and small operators in mature markets can survive and thrive in a legal, regulated landscape.

The Cannabis Advocacy Landscape Faces Funding Shortfalls and Policy Challenges

While public support for marijuana legalization is at an all-time high, state-level reform campaigns have faced increasing difficulties, including dwindling financial support from traditional philanthropic and industry sources. In recent years, some ballot initiatives have stalled or failed due to limited funding, public confusion about regulatory details, and resistance from entrenched political interests.

Smith acknowledges these headwinds and emphasizes that fundraising will be a key component of his leadership. He intends to align MPP’s policy goals with the interests of stakeholders in the cannabis ecosystem without compromising the organization’s values. The ability to maintain credibility and integrity while navigating an evolving funding landscape, he says, will be central to achieving success.

Strategic Focus Remains on State Reform, Even As Federal Policy Hangs in the Balance

Though MPP will continue to monitor and engage in federal-level cannabis policy discussions, Smith says the organization’s primary energy will remain focused on state-based reform. With over 30 years of advocacy success at the state level, MPP is uniquely positioned to provide legislative expertise and on-the-ground support in jurisdictions still grappling with outdated prohibitionist policies.

Federal rescheduling, descheduling, or executive action may change the legal landscape in the future, but state-level governance will remain central to how cannabis is regulated, taxed, and accessed. Smith envisions a future where MPP acts as a bridge between state governments, the cannabis industry, and public health advocates, helping to establish coherent and sustainable cannabis markets.

Smith Seeks to Shape a Legal Market That Promotes Accountability, Access, and Safety

One of Smith’s top priorities is to guide the development of legal markets that ensure accountability, public health protections, and meaningful consumer access. That includes supporting regulatory models that move consumers away from illicit markets, reduce criminalization, and build economic opportunities in both rural and urban communities.

States such as Texas, which have historically been prohibitionist, are now being forced to grapple with how to regulate intoxicating cannabinoids rather than banning them outright. According to Smith, this moment of transition presents a unique opportunity for policy experts to step in and help design systems that reflect public health goals and market realities alike.

MPP’s Legislative Team Positioned to Support States Through Complex Transitions

Smith emphasized his confidence in MPP’s experienced legislative team, led by Director of State Policies Karen O’Keefe. For over two decades, O’Keefe has played a leading role in crafting and advancing cannabis laws across the country. With her guidance and institutional knowledge, Smith believes the organization is well-equipped to help states navigate new cannabis policy challenges—whether that means establishing new adult-use markets, reforming medical marijuana programs, or regulating emerging cannabinoids.

Cannabis Commerce and Industry Sustainability Are Central to Policy Vision

Before joining MPP, Smith founded and led the Alliance for Sensible Markets, a coalition that pushed for opening the door to interstate cannabis commerce. In his view, regional cannabis trade is not only inevitable but essential for long-term industry survival. Without the ability to move products across state lines, small-scale growers in states like Oregon and California face significant economic pressure.

Smith sees interstate commerce, 280E tax reform, and banking access as vital policy issues that must be addressed for the cannabis sector to mature. However, he is quick to reiterate that these goals must be pursued within a framework that protects consumers and promotes transparency, rather than simply serving corporate interests.

Balancing Reform Priorities with Limited Resources Will Be an Ongoing Challenge

One of the most pressing issues facing MPP and the broader reform movement—is how to prioritize limited resources. Smith is candid about the fact that not every legislative opportunity will receive the support it deserves unless industry and philanthropic donors recognize the urgency of the moment.

Nonetheless, he remains optimistic. Smith says MPP will continue to find strategic alignment between its mission and the interests of industry, patients, and voters, ensuring that key issues—like criminal justice reform, patient access, and consumer protection remain at the heart of policy advocacy.

MPP Reaffirms Its Role as a Guiding Force in Cannabis Legalization and Reform

Under Smith’s leadership, MPP intends to solidify its role as a trusted voice in cannabis policy, helping states craft thoughtful legislation while advocating for federal reforms that support safe and equitable cannabis markets. As the country moves closer to a tipping point in marijuana policy, MPP’s blend of political experience, legal acumen, and grassroots support will be vital in steering the movement forward.

With more than half the country now allowing legal marijuana in some form, the path to nationwide legalization is no longer theoretical—it is a policy and political reality that must be managed carefully.

New Leadership, Same Mission Ending Prohibition and Building Equitable Markets

Adam Smith steps into his new role at a critical time for the cannabis movement. With a national policy shift on the horizon, mounting economic pressure in the legal industry, and states continuing to shape diverse regulatory frameworks, MPP’s mission remains urgent and unchanged: end marijuana prohibition, protect public health, ensure safe consumer access, and build legal markets that serve communities not criminalize them.

As the Marijuana Policy Project enters its next phase, all eyes will be on how Smith and his team navigate these intersecting challenges. With three decades of impact behind them and a clear vision ahead, MPP’s legacy of reform and its role in shaping the future of U.S. cannabis policy appears set to continue.