Maurice Tafolla-Cunningham
Director of Licensing and Compliance
Maurice Tafolla-Cunningham is a regulatory expert specializing in the cannabis, hemp, and alcohol industries. Prior to joining KK Legal & Advisory Services, Maurice served as the Director of Licensing for STIIIZY, the most recognized cannabis company in the nation. His work at the forefront of the cannabis industry, combined with his experience advising companies across highly-regulated sectors, has made him a trusted advisor for businesses navigating complex, state and local regulatory frameworks.
Maurice’s practice focuses on helping companies achieve full regulatory compliance for existing operations and expansions into new markets. He has extensive expertise in regulatory issues, licensing, M&A, label compliance, direct to consumer sales (DTC), business strategy, and operational compliance. His work ensures that clients can launch and grow compliant consumer goods while minimizing regulatory risk.
Maurice holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Southern California, where he challenged peers and faculty to seriously engage with cannabis policy and regulatory reform. His mission-driven approach is rooted in legitimizing and advancing the cannabis industry.
An award-winning public speaker and Eagle Scout, Maurice brings a civic-minded, solution-oriented philosophy to his work. Known for his motto, “there is always a solution,” he has built a reputation for delivering pragmatic, results-driven guidance even in the most challenging regulatory environments. Outside of his professional work, Maurice enjoys spending time with his wife and family.
EDUCATION
Master of Public Policy, University of Southern California
Bachelor of Arts— Political Science, California State University Long Beach