The New York State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) on Tuesday voted to finalize adult-use cannabis market regulations proposed by the state’s Office of Cannabis Management, CCB announced.
Under the finalized regulations, individuals and businesses across New York will be able to apply for cultivator, retail dispensary, processor, distributor, and microbusiness licenses beginning Oct. 4. Current Adult-Use Conditional Cultivators and Conditional Processors will be able to apply for full, non-conditional licenses.
In addition, New York’s current medical cannabis operators will be able to apply for adult-use licenses, expanding the state’s cannabis market.
“Today marks the most significant expansion of New York’s legal cannabis market since legalization, and we’ve taken a massive step towards reaching our goal of having New Yorkers being able access safer, regulated cannabis across the state,” OCM Executive Director Chris Alexander said in a news release. “We are immensely proud to be building the fairest, most competitive cannabis industry in the nation — one that puts those most harmed by prohibition first and offers a true opportunity for all New Yorkers — not just large corporations — to compete and thrive.
“The regulations finalized today are the result of robust engagement with stakeholders across the State who submitted thousands of comments. This final package truly represents the values of equity and competition that we believe are central to this market. I want to especially thank Governor Hochul for her leadership, the Board for their collaboration, the Legislature for their vision, and our advocacy partners for their commitment to this mission,” Alexander added.
Those seeking cannabis licenses in New York will be able to file their applications through the New York Business Express Platform.
OCM said it will soon be releasing additional application instructions on its website. More information on New York’s cannabis licenses can be found online.
“Today’s unveiling of our cannabis licensing program represents a defining moment for New York State’s commitment to entrepreneurship and fostering a truly diverse cannabis marketplace,” CCB Chairwoman Tremaine Wright said. “Starting this October, aspiring business owners can navigate the application process for various licenses with ease through the New York Business Express platform. Our pledge to social and economic equity will continue to take center stage, ensuring that individuals and communities from all backgrounds have a fair shot at success in this burgeoning industry. With these comprehensive additions, New York solidifies its reputation as a trailblazing leader in the cannabis world.”
