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New York’s State Cannabis Control Board will be issuing over 1000 cannabis licences when the application window opens on 4 October.
New York’s State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) recently voted to finalise the Office of Cannabis Management’s (OCM) proposed regulations for the state’s adult-use cannabis market.
People and businesses will be able to apply for cultivator, processor, distributor, microbusiness, and retail dispensary licenses beginning from 4 October, 2023 in a move that will see the biggest expansion of New York’s cannabis market since adult use legalisation in 2021.
According to Green Market Report, Chris Alexander, executive director of the New York Office of Cannabis Management, has stated: “We’re going to be issuing well over a thousand, closer to 1,500 licenses, across the supply chain.”
In a statement on the day of the vote, Alexander, commented: “Today marks the most significant expansion of New York’s legal cannabis market since legalisation, and we’ve taken a massive step towards reaching our goal of having New Yorkers being able access safer, regulated cannabis across the state.
“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 finalised 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.”
The CCB has also confirmed that from 4 October, currently-operational Adult-Use Conditional Cultivators (AUCCs) and Conditional Processors (AUCPs) will also be able to apply for full, non-conditional licenses.
Social and economic equity applicants will receive a 50% fee reduction in application or licensing fees and will be eligible for application support.
Tremaine Wright, Chairwoman of the New York State Cannabis Control Board, also stated: “Today’s unveiling of our cannabis licensing programme represents a defining moment for New York State’s commitment to entrepreneurship and fostering a truly diverse cannabis marketplace.
“Starting this October, aspiring business owners can navigate the application process for various licenses with ease through the New York Business Express (NYBE) 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.”
