Minnesota’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is set to welcome a new interim director, Eric Taubel, on January 17. Taubel, who has served as the office’s general counsel since 2023, will take over from Charlene Briner, who has led the office since its inception. Briner, who was initially expected to leave the role in September 2023, will depart after a nearly 18-month tenure.
Governor Tim Walz praised Briner’s efforts, saying she had successfully established a regulatory framework for the state’s emerging cannabis industry. Briner, who had made it clear she did not want the job on a permanent basis, will leave the office with confidence that the team she has built can continue to operate without disruption.
Taubel, a proven leader with experience in state government and regulatory affairs, will oversee the office’s remaining tasks, including the upcoming lotteries for cannabis business licenses and the launch of retail sales in the state. Walz described Taubel as a “proven, effective leader” who brings valuable legal expertise to the role.
The OCM is still awaiting the appointment of a permanent director, but Taubel’s interim leadership will provide stability as the office navigates the next phase of its development. With over 100 employees, the OCM is responsible for implementing Minnesota’s cannabis law and ensuring the industry operates in a safe, accessible, and equitable manner.