New York regulators on Thursday approved a second batch of applications for adult-use cannabis cultivators as the state prepares for the launch of retail sales “later this year.”
The Cannabis Control Board (CCB) granted an additional 36 cultivator licenses for existing hemp businesses as part of the state’s seeding opportunity initiative. The body approved the first 52 applications last month, and regulators will continue to review the bids on a rolling basis.
Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) signed a bill from Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes (D) and Sen. Michelle Hinchey (D) to create conditional licenses in February. The intent is to allow existing hemp operators to get a head start on growing marijuana to meet demand for the forthcoming industry.
Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) Executive Director Chris Alexander affirmed on Thursday that the state is still on track to launch retail sales “later this year,” adding that, “so far, this has had a tremendous impact in our communities statewide.”
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