Governor Kathy Hochul announced on June 3 the confirmation of three members of her cabinet. The Senate confirmed Terry O’Leary as Commissioner of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, John Kagia as Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management, and Kathy Moser as Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
“My administration is laser-focused on making New York safer and more affordable for all — and these three cabinet members will play a pivotal role in driving results statewide,” Hochul said. “New Yorkers deserve experienced, battle-tested public servants ready to get to work on day one. Commissioners O’Leary and Moser and Executive Director Kagia represent the very best of us and I am excited to serve alongside them.”
Terry O’Leary previously served as Executive Deputy Commissioner at DHSES for a decade, overseeing daily operations and leading responses to several natural disasters including Tropical Storms Isaias, Ida, Fred, Debby, flooding on Lake Ontario, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He also launched new programs such as the Cyber Incident Response Team and Domestic Terrorism Prevention Unit. O’Leary said, “Leading this agency is the privilege of a lifetime, and I thank Governor Hochul for this incredible opportunity. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is comprised of the hardworking public servants who have dedicated themselves to creating a safe, prepared and resilient New York. It has been an honor to work with them for the past decade, and I look forward to leading the Division as we advance Governor Hochul’s top priority in strengthening public safety throughout the entire state.”
John Kagia previously served as Director of Policy at OCM where he managed policy development for medical cannabis programs. Kagia said, “I am honored by the Senate’s confirmation and grateful to Governor Hochul, the Cannabis Control Board, our staff, and the stakeholders who have helped build New York’s cannabis market. Over the past 5 years, New York has built the nation’s most innovative cannabis framework… As this market continues to mature… we remain committed to strengthening the legal marketplace… protecting consumers… ensuring benefits reach communities throughout New York State.”
Kathy Moser was confirmed after serving in an acting capacity since October 2025; she previously worked at Open Space Institute directing parks stewardship programs. She has also held roles at DEC as Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources among other conservation positions. Moser said, “I am honored to have been asked by Governor Hochul to lead… grateful to State Senate for today’s confirmation. The public trust placed in stewarding… Park system – one of our greatest assets – is a responsibility I take very seriously…”
