New York
In 2014, New York voters approved a ballot measure that legalized medical cannabis. The law went into effect on January 1, 2015. In 2021, New York passed the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA), which legalized recreational cannabis. The law went into effect on March 31, 2023.
The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is the regulatory agency for cannabis in New York.
Current Legislation
Possession
Adult-Use: Recreational cannabis is legal for adults 21 and older. Adults are allowed to possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower, or 24 grams of concentrated cannabis.
Medical: Adults with a valid medical marijuana card are allowed to possess up to 3 ounces of medical marijuana, or 24 grams of concentrated cannabis.
Growing
Adult-Use: Recreational cannabis is legal to grow up to 3 mature plants and 6 immature plants per household.
Medical: Adults with a valid medical marijuana card are allowed to grow up to 12 plants per household, with no more than 6 mature plants.
Selling
Adult-Use: Recreational cannabis is legal to sell to adults 21 and older. Only licensed retailers can sell recreational cannabis.
Medical: The sale of medical cannabis is legal to adults with a valid medical marijuana card. Only licensed dispensaries can sell medical cannabis.
Penalties
Adult-Use: For possession of up to 3 ounces of recreational cannabis, the maximum penalty is a fine of $100. For possession of more than 3 ounces, the maximum penalty is a fine of $250 and up to 15 days in jail.
Medical: There are no penalties for possession of up to 3 ounces of medical cannabis by adults with a valid medical marijuana card. For possession of more than 3 ounces, the maximum penalty is a fine of $250 and up to 15 days in jail.
To apply for an adult-use license in New York, you must submit an application to the OCM. The application process includes submitting certain documentation, such as your personal information, business plan, and financial information. The OCM will review your application and make a decision on whether to approve or deny your application. The review process can take several months.
Here are some additional tips for applying for an adult-use license in New York:
Start the application process early. The OCM has a limited number of licenses available, so it is important to submit your application early.
Make sure you understand the eligibility requirements. The OCM will not approve your application if you do not meet the eligibility requirements.
Gather all of the required documentation. The OCM will not approve your application if you do not submit all of the required documentation.
Pay the application fee. The OCM will not review your application if you do not pay the application fee.
Be patient. The review process can take several months.
Get help from a cannabis business consultant like Dispensary Accelerator. A cannabis business consultant can help you understand the application process and the requirements. They can also help you prepare your application and answer any questions you may have.
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