Judge rules law that shut down thousands of cannabis shops across New York City unconstitutional

A Queens judge ruled Tuesday that the local law that let New York City rapidly shut down more than 1,000 businesses accused of selling cannabis without licenses is unconstitutional because it denies shop owners their rights to due process.

A statement from the attorney for Cloud Corner, who represents the business, said the judge's decision "validates what we have been arguing since this statute was enacted."

"Mayor Adams, the City Council, and the Sheriff have violated the due process rights of every store owner that has been shutdown by the NYC Sheriff's office," the statement said.

The statement adds that the decision will allow every store that has been shut down to be reopened immediately and to sue for damages associated with the closing of the store.

A City Hall spokesperson said the Law Department has filed a notice of appeal in this case, claiming "Illegal smoke shops and their dangerous products endanger young New Yorkers and our quality of life."

"Operation Padlock to Protect," which was given the green light by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul back in April, gave the city the power to padlock stores after just one inspection.

Previously, an operator could continue to run the business during a year-long appeal process.

The city says the operation has shut down over 1,200 illegal cannabis shops and seized over $82 million in illegal products.