Governor Hochul Crackdown on Illegal Cannabis Sales in New York State Results in Record Seizures

Nearly $30 Million of Illegal Cannabis Seized and 86 More Adult-Use Licenses Issued as New York's Cannabis Industry Booms

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In a crackdown on illegal cannabis sales and to boost the regulated market in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has overseen a crackdown that has netted record seizures of illegal products and 86 New adult-use cannabis licenses. Enforcement agencies reported seizure of nearly $30 million of illegal cannabis products and the closure of 231 unlicensed stores, a significant step in the battle against the black market.

Governor Hochul's administration has focused on enforcement and compliance in regulating the cannabis industry. The recent spike in legal cannabis sales surpassing $331 million in July alone and nearly $500 million year-to-date reflect the growing demand for regulated cannabis products. With more than 156 adult-use dispensaries open across the state, consumers have more access to tested cannabis products.

The New York state Cannabis Control Board (CCB), chaired by Tremaine Wright, was instrumental in moving the State's Cannabis regulatory framework forward. At this month's board meeting the CCB approved 86 adult-use cannabis licenses for cultivators, processors, distributors, microbusinesses and retail dispensaries. These licenses that encourage equity and diversity in the industry are expected to stimulate economic growth and innovation in the growing cannabis market.

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Among the initiatives approved by the CCB is the adoption of new bylaws defining the Board's powers and organization to ensure clear and structured governance. In addition, the CCB approved regulations permitting public convenience and advantage waivers that allow applicants to waive buffer distance requirements between dispensaries based on population density.

OCM has led the state in cracking down on the illegal Cannabis market. OCM has curtailed illegal sales through more than 500 inspections and the seizure of 6,000 pounds of illegal cannabis products. The crackdown on unlicensed cannabis storefronts has spurred legal sales and ensured that consumers have safe, regulated products.

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The success of New York's cannabis sector is bolstered by the SEE program, which encourages diversity and inclusion in the market. Analysis of retail dispensary licensing reveals that a significant proportion of licenses are owned by SEE-owned businesses, consistent with the program's commitment to serving underrepresented groups.