Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office announced yesterday that the state’s Director of the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, Andrew Brisbo, will be stepping down to take another job as director of the state’s Bureau of Construction Codes. Brisbo will switch jobs in about a month, on September 17.
“We are proud of the incredible team at the Cannabis Regulatory Agency for establishing Michigan as one of the top cannabis markets in the country. Over the last few years, the industry has experienced rapid growth with the creation of over 20,000 well-paying jobs and the generation of $500 million in tax revenue,” read a release from Gov. Whitmer’s office.
Brisbo has maintained a high profile as director of the CRA. Known to be easily accessible by people in and out of the industry, he conducted quarterly public meetings over Zoom from his home during the height of the pandemic, and then continued the meetings from official Lansing offices.
“Our members were shocked and disappointed to learn that there will be a leadership change at the CRA. We want to thank Director Brisbo for his commitment to our program, for his help building our industry and for doing an incredible job leading the agency,” said Robin Schneider, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association.
“From day one, Andrew has been easily accessible and open-minded to the views and concerns of key stakeholders in our new industry. We thank him for playing a central role in establishing our regulated cannabis marketplace,” said Michigan Cannabis Manufacturer’s Association chair Shelly Edgerton in a press release.
No replacement for Brisbo has been announced yet. The Governor’s office says they are just now beginning a search for a replacement.
