Canna-biz: The state of doing cannabis business in the State of Illinois

Please join us for a discussion on the state of doing cannabis business in the State of Illinois from two individuals who assisted in crafting the law. Stay for networking and refreshments.

Guest Speakers: Ron Holmes and Kareem Kenyatta, The Majority-Minority Group

About The Majority-Minority Group:

Ron and Kareem have over a combined 25 years of experience in state government and politics and assisted in negotiating the most social-equity driven cannabis law in the country. Ron served as the lead lobbyist for The Medical Cannabis Alliance of Illinois – a trade association representing cultivation centers and dispensary organizations. Kareem lobbied on behalf of the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) – the largest organization in the U.S. that’s focused solely on enacting humane marijuana laws.

About Ron Holmes:

Ron Holmes is the founding principal of Ron Holmes Consulting, a practice focusing on government and political affairs, and recognized in politics for using his persuasion skills to help his clients navigate the political halls of power, the media, and the electoral process. For over 15 years, Ron served as a senior strategist for some of Illinois’ most powerful voice. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, as well as several members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus have tapped into Ron’s expertise.

About Kareem Kenyatta:

Kareem Kenyatta has over a decade of experience working with the Illinois Legislature. In January 2014, he joined Zack Stamp Consulting, LLC, a consulting practice that focuses on Government Relations. Prior to becoming a consultant, Kareem served as Director of Legislative Affairs for Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan. When Kareem worked for the Speaker of the IL House of Representatives’ Research and Budget Office, he represented the Speaker and House members in negotiations on legislation, budget appropriations, and public policy initiatives. In this capacity, he also managed the appropriation process for a number of state agencies and regional authorities. As Legislative Director, Kareem implemented and coordinated a comprehensive legislative strategy for the Attorney General.

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