On June 10, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul made a significant move in the state’s cannabis industry by appointing Felicia Reid as Acting Executive Director at the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). This temporary appointment follows the dismissal of former executive director Chris Alexander, who faced criticism and lawsuits over the slow rollout of legal weed.
The Cannabis Control Board (CCB), separate from the OCM, took decisive steps to approve home growing rules. These new regulations aim to streamline and clarify the legal landscape for cannabis users and growers in New York.
Key Home Growing Rules
The newly approved rules by the CCB include several important provisions:
- Sales of Seeds and Plants: Only licensed retailers can sell seeds and immature plants.
- Age Restrictions: Growers and users must be over 21.
- Plant Limits: Individuals can have up to three immature plants and three mature plants, with a household limit of 12 plants.
- Medicinal Provisions: Medicinal users can have a caregiver grow for them.
- Possession Limits: Home growers can keep up to five pounds of trimmed cannabis or the equivalent weight in concentrates at their residence.
- Carry Limits: Individuals can carry up to three ounces of cannabis and 24 grams of concentrate within New York.
- Non-Commercial Use: Homegrown cannabis cannot be bought, sold, or traded.
- Growing in Rentals: Individuals can grow cannabis in rental properties, including single rooms, apartments, houses, and mobile homes, with certain landlord protections.
- Odor Control: Growers must try to limit odors to avoid bothering neighbors.
- Security Measures: Growers must block the view of crops to prevent theft.
- Safety Regulations: Flammable materials cannot be used to make tinctures or butters.
Leadership Changes and Future Plans
Gov. Hochul’s announcement also highlighted a national search for a permanent Executive Director of OCM. This role is crucial as it oversees licensing, compliance, and enforcement within the state’s cannabis industry.
“I’m committed to ensuring New York’s nation-leading cannabis market continues to thrive,” Hochul said on Monday. The appointment of Reid as both Executive Deputy Director and Acting Executive Director marks a significant overhaul within the OCM, intended to end the bottleneck of license applicants.
New Licenses Issued
On June 11, the CCB approved 105 new business licenses for various roles within the cannabis industry. These licenses include:
- Cultivator Licenses: 25
- Distributor Licenses: 22
- Microbusiness Licenses: 22
- Processor Licenses: 19
- Retail Dispensary Licenses: 17
However, the CCB also denied 100 applications, underscoring the competitive and regulated nature of New York’s cannabis market. As of Tuesday afternoon, there were 132 weed dispensaries operating across the state.
Moving Forward
The changes initiated by Gov. Hochul and the CCB are poised to reshape New York’s cannabis industry. The new home growing rules provide clarity and opportunity for individuals and businesses alike. As the state continues to refine its approach, stakeholders are optimistic about the future of the market.
The overhaul signifies a commitment to creating a robust and inclusive cannabis industry in New York, setting a precedent for other states to follow. With a new leadership structure and clear regulations, New York is well-positioned to lead the way in cannabis reform.
