Office of Cannabis Management Executive Director Chris Alexander said, “New York state leads the nation in its commitment to equity in cannabis. To protect what we are building, we have to make sure that our legal dispensaries have a real shot to thrive against illicit operators. I want to thank Governor Hochul, and our partners across the state for the steadfast commitment to getting this right. The stakes are too high and it’s time we close down these illicit shops, and hold tech companies accountable.”
The Cannabis Place Chief Executive Officer Osbert Orduna said, “Together, we can send a powerful message that unlicensed cannabis stores have no place in our communities, and that we are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the safety and welfare of all New Yorkers. It is imperative for the legislature, regulatory agencies, and local governments to work collaboratively to ensure the integrity and success of New York’s cannabis market. I would like to thank the many advocates, legislators, the OCM and the Governor for their combined efforts to build a legal, safe, regulated market for consumers with true social and economic equity.”