Illinois medical marijuana director resigns after just over a year
CHICAGO An attorney appointed last year by Gov. Bruce Rauner to lead the Illinois medical marijuana program has resigned to pursue work in the private sector.
Joseph Wright, 32, who was in the position for just over one year, told The Associated Press on Monday he felt the time was right to seek other opportunities, possibly in the medical cannabis industry.
A spokeswoman for the governor confirmed the resignation Monday. Spokeswoman Catherine Kelly told the AP the governors office will have no further comment on the reasons for the resignation.
Wright, who resigned Friday, was paid $53,770 last year, according to a public database of state employee salaries. He will be replaced by Jack Campbell, the programs bureau chief in the Department of Agriculture, Kelly said.
Campbell, 51, the incoming program director, has a background in law enforcement. In 2014, he lost a GOP primary election for Sangamon County sheriff. He continued working as a sergeant for the county until retiring in early January. His state medical marijuana job began last summer under a contract that paid him $45 an hour.
The programs first director, Bob Morgan, called the leadership change positive news for patients.
Joe moved the implementation of the program through some difficult phases including the first sales of cannabis to patients, Morgan said. Campbell, the incoming director, has a strong reputation for how he has engaged with (marijuana) cultivation centers during inspections.
If Wright lands a job in the medical marijuana industry, he will be following in Morgans footsteps. Morgan, appointed by former Gov. Pat Quinn, now advises clients in the marijuana industry, writes Pot Czar Blog and is president of the Illinois Cannabis Bar Association. Illinois ethics law for state employees could affect what positions Wright would be able to take. The revolving door provisions of the Ethics Act are meant to reduce former state workers from undue influence over lucrative contracts.
The change in leaders comes as Rauner considers signing a bill to extend the ...
