The state is updating New Yorkers on its efforts to crack down on illegal cannabis dispensaries.
According to Governor Kathy Hochul, since being launched on May 21, the Illicit Cannabis Enforcement Task Force, in collaboration with other agencies, has conducted over 700 inspections resulting in the seizure of 7,485 pounds of illegal pot with an estimated value of $28.9 million.
“Thousands of illegal cannabis storefronts across the State have plagued our communities and siphoned business from licensed retailers,” Governor Hochul said. “I launched the Illicit Cannabis Enforcement Task Force to quickly close these unlicensed shops, and today, more than 1,000 have been shuttered. I look forward to building upon that success to continue our enforcement efforts across New York.”
345 illegal pot shops have been padlocked shut with an additional 136 locations closing voluntarily. 596 notices of violation have also been issued.
OCM Director of Investigations and Enforcement Daniel Haughney said, “I am extremely proud of the Taskforce members, OCM’s agency partners and our collaboration with local law enforcement. It has been an incredible collective effort, from the long hours in sweltering heat, to travel crisscrossing the State. The Taskforce has made enormous strides in shifting the cannabis landscape in New York, although there remains much work ahead. I commend Governor Hochul for putting in place the structures to take swift and decisive administrative action.”
As of August 23, the 2024 year-to-date cannabis sales in the Empire State reached $368.4 million, more than doubling the $160 million in sales from 2023.
There are currently 166 retail dispensaries open across the state.
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