New York’s medical cannabis system will experience its most significant reform in nearly a decade after Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill S3294A, a sweeping update to the state’s Medical Cannabis Program. The legislation, announced Tuesday by the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), aims to expand patient access, streamline participation, and clarify rights for certified patients and caregivers.
The reforms represent the largest modernization of New York’s medical cannabis framework since its 2016 launch.
“This legislation reflects New York’s ongoing commitment to compassion, science, access, and equity,” said Felicia A.B. Reid, acting executive director of the OCM.
Among the most notable provisions is medical cannabis reciprocity, which will allow certified patients from other states to purchase products at New York’s medical dispensaries. The bill also simplifies the certification process for New Yorkers, easing provider requirements and doubling certification lengths from one year to two.
The law provides more flexibility around possession limits and formalizes rules for home cultivation, allowing certified patients aged 18 and older to grow cannabis for personal medical use. Officials say these measures will reduce barriers and give patients more control over their treatment options.
“These updates move us closer to a medical cannabis program that truly supports patient care,” said Dr. June Chin, the OCM’s chief medical officer. “We are ensuring that treatment decisions are guided by evidence, clinical expertise, and the lived experiences of the people we serve.”
Most changes will take effect in 90 days, though some provisions may require a longer rollout as the state develops additional regulations.
Dr. Nakesha Abel, OCM’s deputy director of scientific programs and research, said the modernization prioritizes both data and patient experience. “By grounding policy in data and patient experience, we’ve built a stronger, more accessible program for all New Yorkers,” she said.
For more information on New York’s cannabis programs and regulatory updates, visit https://cannabis.ny.gov/.
To find a registered medical cannabis dispensary in New York, visit https://cannabis.ny.gov/dispensing-facilities.
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