New York Hemp Growers Gain Adult-Use Licenses
The New York State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) has approved 36 more adult-use cannabis cultivator licenses for hemp growers. This brings the total of approved licenses to 88 from more than 200 applications.
“Today, we are granting an additional 36 licenses to hard-working New York farmers devoted to growing the best supply to our state,” said CCB Chair Tremaine Wright on May 6. “These 36 new licensees are helping create the foundation of a safe, equitable industry built as they grow the cannabis that will line the shelves of dispensaries owned by justice-involved entrepreneurs later this year.”
In February, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation to create these licenses for New York-based farms that have already been growing hemp in the state. The application portal opened in March, and the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) continues to review applications.
“New York is building the most inclusive cannabis industry in the country and including small farmers with an expertise is an essential component in accomplishing that goal,” said OCM Executive Director Chris Alexander. “The growing season isn’t waiting for anyone and I’m grateful for the hard work of the CCB and my colleagues at OCM to ensure these licenses are being reviewed as quickly as possible so New York’s farmers can take full advantage of the growing season and cultivate the products that our equity entrepreneurs will be the first to sell when they open their dispensaries this year.”
