New York has shut down over 1,000 more illegal Cannabis shops
New York's Crackdown Shutters Over 1,000 Illegal Cannabis Shops.
Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams announced that New York’s crackdown on illegal cannabis shops has led to the closure of over 1,000 unlicensed stores statewide. Since May, the New York City task force has padlocked 779 illegal shops, while the state’s cannabis enforcement task force shut down 230 more.
The enforcement actions have seized over $63 million in illegal products, with the legal cannabis market experiencing a 72% sales increase in New York City. Legal dispensaries report significant revenue growth, with some seeing over 100% sales increases.
The initiative is part of Governor Hochul’s FY25 budget, which strengthened enforcement powers to eliminate unlicensed operations and protect legal cannabis businesses. The state aims to build a fair and equitable cannabis industry, with support from the public and industry leaders.
OCM Interim Executive Director Felicia A.B. Reid emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating they are crucial in supporting New York’s legal cannabis businesses and ensuring a safer, regulated market.
