Medical marijuana trade group set to debut in Massachusetts

By Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff

A trade group for the state’s medical marijuana business is being started this week by industry consultants, lawyers, public relations officials, patients, and business leaders.

The Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Association will be affiliated with the industry’s national trade group, the National Cannabis Industry Association, and is scheduled to host its official launch event Feb. 7 at the Omni Parker House in Boston.

Donoghue, Barrett and Singal, a Boston law firm that specializes in health care, is advocating for the association on state and local regulatory issues. State lobbying efforts will be headed by the government relations firm, Beacon Strategies Group.

The Denver-based medical marijuana law firm, Vicente Sederberg, which has advised numerous states and local governments on the implementation of medical marijuana policies, is leading the trade group’s public policy team.

“The MMMA is the only association in Massachusetts with the experience and expertise in successfully implementing medical marijuana legislation,” Shaleen Title, executive director of new group and a partner with Vicente Sederberg, said in a statement.

Aaron Smith, executive director of the national group, said, “In associating with the MMMA, the National Cannabis Industry Association has found a strong partner to thoughtfully represent the interests of patients, community activists and local business leaders.”

Jenn Abelson can be reached at abelson@globe.com.