The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) has announced that Jeremy Preiss, the agency’s Acting Head and Chief Officer of Regulatory, Policy, and External Affairs, will be leaving his position after more than three years of service. The CCA Board of Directors has appointed Jamie Patten, the agency’s Chief Administrative Officer, as the new Acting Head, according to a press release.
The shift comes following Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s recent veto of a retail cannabis bill.
During his time with the CCA, Preiss played a key role in the agency’s initial development, helping to establish its foundation and oversee public safety and health initiatives, medical cannabis oversight, educational efforts, and regulatory development.
“The Board is grateful for Jeremy’s dedication to the CCA and the Commonwealth,” stated John Keohane, Chairman of the Board. “His expertise and leadership were instrumental in getting the agency off the ground, developing its mission, and building its operations and regulatory framework. We are confident in Jamie’s ability to guide the agency forward.”
Preiss reflected on his time with the CCA, saying, “I depart heartened by the many contributions the CCA’s talented team has made to the Commonwealth’s public safety and health since it started operations, and I’m confident its best days lie ahead under Jamie’s very capable leadership.”
Patten expressed her gratitude for Preiss’s leadership and her enthusiasm for the future. “I want to thank Jeremy for his service and dedication to the CCA and the people of Virginia,” she said. “I’m excited to lead the agency during this dynamic time in cannabis regulation. The CCA will continue its important work with a focus on public safety, public health, and community protection.”
