McGlinchey Stafford’s Fort Lauderdale Office Plays Key Role in Shaping Cannabis Policy

In recent years, the Fort Lauderdale office of McGlinchey Stafford PLLC has emerged as a driving force in the evolving landscape of cannabis law—especially in employment and policy circles. Central to this effort is Chase Stoecker, Of Counsel in Fort Lauderdale, whose career reflects both leadership and thought‑leadership.

ABA Appointment: Elevating a Florida Voice

In mid-December 2023, McGlinchey Stafford proudly announced that Chase Stoecker was named Membership Vice‑Chair of the American Bar Association’s Cannabis Law & Policy Committee for the 2023–24 term. This committee, under the ABA’s Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section (TIPS), plays a vital role in driving national debate, educational programming, and policy development around both state and federal cannabis issues.

Stoecker brings robust credentials to the position: he counsels cannabis and ancillary companies (including staffing, payments, insurance, agriculture, transportation, and cultivation) and is frequently called on as a presenter or author on cannabis regulation. His appointment marks a significant step in centralizing Floridian expertise in national gatherings—an important shift as the Sunshine State moves toward potential recreational cannabis legalization.

Educating the Market: “Cannabis in the Workplace” Webinar

On December 13, 2023, Chase Stoecker and Andrew Albritton (based in New Orleans) co‑hosted a CLE webinar titled “Cannabis in the Workplace” under the ABA’s Law Practice program. Their goal: help employers and legal professionals navigate the growing tension between state‑level legalization and federal cannabis prohibition. The session covered core topics:

• Fundamental definitions—distinguishing cannabis, hemp, marijuana, and cannabinoids
• State law updates governing current and prospective employee use
• The interplay with federal workplace rules
• Safety and risk management in cannabis operations
• Best‑practice frameworks for compliance and policy design

This event wasn’t Stoecker’s first foray into employer‑focused cannabis law. He and Albritton previously addressed Louisiana corporate counsel on similar themes in November 2023 and co-presented a CLE on August 17, 2023—underscoring their sustained commitment to practical guidance.

Why Fort Lauderdale Matters

Through initiatives like these, the Fort Lauderdale office has positioned itself at the intersection of regional legal expertise and national influence:

• Thought leadership: Stoecker’s authorship of journal articles—including analyses of zero‑tolerance policies and ADA impacts—and frequent podcast and panel appearances reinforce his reputation .
• Policy influence: His ABA committee role provides an institutional channel for the firm—and by extension, Florida—to inform federal conversations, especially in light of major national developments like potential rescheduling and banking reform (e.g., the SAFE Banking or SAFER Banking Act).
• Client support: With hands‑on experience in compliance and policy formation, the office offers real‑world value to cannabis operators working through state and federal labyrinths.

Looking Ahead

As Florida approaches potential recreational legalization, the Fort Lauderdale office—led by figures like Stoecker and Albritton—is well‑positioned to guide business clients, employers, lawmakers, and regulators alike. Their blend of national influence and local insight puts them front and center in shaping the next chapter of cannabis policy—both in the Sunshine State and across the U.S.