The New York State Office of Cannabis Management celebrated a historic milestone this week: the cannabis industry surpassed $1 billion in retail sales, with nearly 300 dispensaries now open statewide. State officials say this achievement, celebrated at the Million Dollar Stairs at the State Capitol, highlights New York’s dedication to building an equitable and sustainable cannabis market, empowering local entrepreneurs, and uplifting communities across the state.
To commemorate this accomplishment, the Empire State Plaza and Alfred E. Smith Building were illuminated in green Tuesday night.
“The successes we are seeing with legalized adult-use cannabis sales has truly been a collaborative effort,” said Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes. “Recognizing the need to put equity and inclusion at the forefront of this mission and seeing the businesses being created and lives changed for the better, because of those initiatives, should make us all proud.”
“When the MRTA passed years ago, $1 billion in cannabis sales was only a goal – today it is a reality,” said Senator Jeremy Cooney, Chair of the Senate subcommittee on cannabis. “While we celebrate this important milestone, we must also take note of the work that still lies ahead and continue our pursuit towards a thriving, equitable marketplace here in New York.”
“We, you, me, all of us who celebrate this achievement—have shown New York, and the nation, what is possible when people face their past to build their future, and when we prioritize homegrown ingenuity and innovation in industry.” said Felicia A. B. Reid, Acting Executive Director of The New York State Office of Cannabis Management. Reid From the Bronx to Buffalo, Plattsburgh to Poughkeepsie, and Islip to Ithaca, the regulated cannabis industry reflects New York values. Together, we are building something precious and unprecedented—an industry that not only acknowledges the past but actively works to create a more just and equitable future.”
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