Key Updates:
- ICYMI: New York Surpasses 300 Licensed Cannabis Dispensaries: New York’s legal cannabis market is booming, with over 300 licensed dispensaries now open statewide! Since launching in December 2022, the industry has generated $1.06 billion+ in retail sales, created 5,000+ jobs, and awarded 80% of retail licenses to Social and Economic Equity applicants.With dispensaries averaging $381,000 in monthly sales in 2024, the market is thriving—expanding access to tested, regulated cannabis while reinvesting in communities most impacted by prohibition. Find your local dispensary and buy legal #NYcannabis today!
- OCM at the 54th Legislative Black, Puerto Rican, and Asian Caucus Weekend: The Office proudly participated in the 54th Legislative Black, Puerto Rican, and Asian Caucus Weekend, where our Acting Executive Director, Felicia A. B. Reid, was featured on a panel titled “Revisiting the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act: More than the Money.” The panel, hosted by Assembly Majority Leader Crystal People-Stokes, brought together MRTA experts to discuss the profound impact of cannabis regulation.Additionally, our External Affairs team connected with the community at our table on the concourse, sharing valuable information about hiring opportunities within the agency. Thank you to everyone who joined us in these important conversations!
- Trade Practices Bureau Launched: The Office announced the launch of its new Trade Practices Bureau (TPB), dedicated to investigating violations and protecting legal cannabis operators. The Board also approved the delegation of subpoena powers to OCM’s Office of General Counsel, enhancing efforts to maintain industry integrity.
- Community Reinvestment Program Updates: The first round of the Community Reinvestment Program received 451 submissions, with 341 applications meeting eligibility requirements for full evaluation. The Office is currently reviewing submissions, and the Cannabis Advisory Board is expected to announce award recipients in late spring or early summer. Stay tuned for updates!
- Farewell & Best Wishes:
- Thank You, Tabatha Robinson! OCM extends our deepest gratitude to Tabatha Robinson, Acting Chief Equity Officer and Executive Deputy Director of Economic Development, as she steps into her new role as Director of the Maryland Cannabis Administration. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing equity initiatives, and we know she’ll continue making a powerful impact!
- Best Wishes, Dr. Nicole Rosa! A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Nicole Rosa, Executive Deputy Director of Health and Scientific Affairs and Chief Medical Officer, for her dedication to leading the Medical Program. Dr. Rosa will now serve as a pharmacy consultant at the Department of Health, and we wish her all the best in this next chapter.Your contributions will not be forgotten—thank you both for your service!
- Cannabis Control Board (CCB) Leadership Updates:
Welcome Brad Usher! The Cannabis Control Board welcomed its newest member, Brad Usher, appointed by the New York State Senate. With two decades of experience as Chief of Staff to State Senator Liz Krueger, Usher played a key role in shaping cannabis legislation, including the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act. We look forward to his contributions as the industry continues to grow. - Farewell to Dr. Jennifer Gilbert Jenkins! The Board extends its gratitude to Dr. Jennifer Gilbert Jenkins for her dedication and service since January 2023. Her insights and leadership have been instrumental in shaping New York’s cannabis industry. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors!
- Cannabis Control Board (#NYCCB) February 14th Meeting:
- #NYCannabis Market Updates: On February 14, 2025, the New York State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) approved 74 new adult-use licenses, bringing the total to 1,510 statewide! New York now has 309 operational dispensaries.
- Newly issued licenses: 6 AU Distributor / 10 AU Microbusiness / 39 AU Processor / 16 AU Retail Dispensary. Additionally, 3 CAURD final licenses were granted, increasing the total to 240.
- Market Growth & Social Equity Updates: Retail sales have already surpassed $110 million in the first month of 2025!
- Equity-driven progress: 62% of the 74 adult-use licenses approved are Social and Economic Equity (SEE) owned. 52% of those licenses are women-owned businesses. To date 54% of licenses across the Supply Chain are Social and Economic Equity (SEE) owned.
