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Tag: Regional news update

Industry Yacht Party, Liberty Island, 2022
By CWCBExpo

NY and NJ Markets Continue to Expand 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter (now X) to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

Step into the final stretch of 2023 with our December regional cannabis news update. The edition spotlights a game-changing decision by New York’s Cannabis Control Board, as well as the flourishing market in New Jersey. As we close out the year, witness the expansion of markets across the Northeast as we unpack the details of some of the most pivotal moves in our area. 

MSOs approved to enter the New York adult use market

Following the state’s Supreme Court decision on December 1st to lift an injunction hindering the issuance of new Conditional Adult-Use Retail (CAURD) Licenses, the Cannabis Control Board (CCB) in New York has officially given the green light to multistate operators (MSOs) with medical marijuana licenses to enter the adult use market on December 29th, 2023. 

The decision comes exactly one year after the state launched recreational sales. Thus far, the CCB approved the following six organizations to join the adult use market: 

  • Columbia Care NY, whose parent is New York-based MSO The Cannabist Co.
  • Curaleaf NY, part of New York-headquartered MSO Curaleaf Holdings
  • Etain, owned by RIV Capital, a Toronto-based investment firm
  • NYCanna, part of New York-headquartered MSO Acreage Holdings
  • PharmaCann of New York, whose parent is Chicago-based MSO PharmaCann
  • Valley Agriceuticals, whose parent is Chicago-headquartered MSO Cresco Labs

While the waiting period had been adopted to provide a first-to-market advantage to social equity retailers and smaller supplies, gears have shifted in an effort to expand retail options as hundreds of unlicensed shops continue to plague the market. 

These six companies will eventually be permitted to set up co-located adult-use sales at up to three of their existing medical dispensaries. For the time being, however, each was approved for a single shop that can open by the end of the month. The CCB also approved new medical-only locations for both Citiva and Fiorello. 

New Jersey sales increase as prices drop 

New Jersey cannabis sales are stacking up high, as the recreational market recorded $206.1 million for Q3 2023. This brings the state’s total legal market revenue for the year to $762.9 million. The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) reported a 10% increase in sales in the same quarter, from the $160.2 million in adult use cannabis revenue generated from April through June. 

According to CRC Executive Jeff Brown, consumers are attracted to the licensed marketplace, which includes 70-plus adult-use dispensaries statewide. As a result, prices for products are starting to come down. The average flower price dropped to roughly $354 per ounce at adult-use retail, representing a 10.5% decrease from January’s average price of $396. 

“New Jersey’s market continues to grow,” Brown said during the commission’s regular meeting on Dec. 7th. “For the first time in history, legal cannabis sales in New Jersey eclipsed $200 million in the third quarter of 2023. That includes just shy of $177 million of adult-use sales and just shy of $30 million of medicinal sales.”

New Jersey’s adult-use sales accounted for nearly 86% of all sales for the third quarter of 2023. The state’s medical market continues to shrink due to expanded opportunities for consumers.

More dispensaries are opening across New York 

Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) has announced the opening of one dozen new adult-use dispensaries from Brooklyn to Buffalo. By the end of December 2023, the state anticipates having at least 37 adult-use dispensaries open for businesses. Among the opening locations, eight are majority Black-owned, five are Hispanic-owned, and nine are woman-owned.

“As New York expands the most equitable cannabis market in the nation, my administration remains committed to building a safe industry for all New Yorkers that will grow our small business community,” Governor Hochul said in a press release. “These new dispensaries continue our mission of strengthening our legal market while at the same time helping to push out the bad actors who skirt our laws and undermine all we are trying to accomplish.”

Below is a list of the dispensaries that have recently opened or are set to open this month. Opening dates are subject to change: 

  • Hush – 2460 Williamsbridge Road Fl 1, Bronx 10469, (Opened on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023)

  • Grow Together – 2370 Coney Island Ave., Brooklyn 11223, (Opened Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023)

  • Dagmar Cannabis – 412 W Broadway, New York 10012, (Opening on Friday, Dec. 15, 2023)

  • THC Herbal Care – 1412 Lexington Ave., New York 10128 (Tentative opening, Jan. 4, 2024)

  • Happy Days – 105 Route 109, Farmingdale 11735 (Tentative opening on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2023)

  • Elevate – 127 S Terrace Ave., Mount Vernon 10550 (Opened on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023)

  • The Highest Peak – Village of Potsdam, 5 Market St., Potsdam 13676 (Opened on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023)

  • The Firehaus – 7479 US Highway 11, Potsdam 13676 (Opened Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023)

  • 420 Bliss – 740 Hoosick St., Brunswick 12180 (Opened on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023)

  • Capital District Wellness – 997 Central Ave. Suite 200, Albany 12205 (Opened on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023)

  • Amsterdam Cannabis – 1451 State Highway 5S, Amsterdam 12010 (Opened on Friday, Dec. 9, 2023)

  • Premier Earth Corp – 1297 Hertel Ave., Buffalo 14216 (Opened on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023)

  • MJ Dispensary – 900 Jefferson Rd Ste 902, Rochester 14623 (Opened on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023)

Embrace growth with CWCBExpo

December marks a transformative period for the Northeast’s cannabis landscape. As we bid farewell to 2023, the region is poised for continued growth and innovation. Stay up to date with our latest updates and join us for insightful discussion at our upcoming in-person conferences – where the pulse of the industry will continue to beat strong in the new year.  

NORML exhibit booth with JM Pedini, at CWCBExpo NY, 2023
By CWCBExpo

NYC Faces Licensing Challenges as NJ Market Expands

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter (now X) to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

August was not a slow news month for East Coast cannabis! From the inaugural cannabis farmers market in NYC to delivery preparation in NJ to serious challenges posed to New York licenses, the market is on the move in more ways than one. Join us as we navigate the currents of change and delve into some of this month’s defining moments. 

1. Temporary order bars new N.Y. cannabis licenses under CAURD program

A New York judge issued a halt on cannabis licensing in regards to a lawsuit challenging the state’s current cannabis retailers program. The temporary order, signed by state Supreme Court Judge Kevin Bryant, bars regulators from issuing or processing new licenses until the matter is resolved. 

The Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) passed in 2021 established service-disabled veterans as a sub-group of social and economic equity applicants who are being prioritized for licenses in New York State. However, a lawsuit filed by four veterans claims the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and Cannabis Control Board (CCB) unconstitutionally made cannabis-related convictions an initial eligibility requirement, pushing them out in the process. 

“The regulations that were then adopted, well not necessarily prohibiting any disabled service veteran from applying, they would have to then satisfy the other various CAURD (Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary) requirements, which is that they were convicted of a marijuana-related offense prior to March 31st of 2021,” Matt Morey, a legal analyst, told Spectrum Local News.

Bryant’s ruling sided with the veterans, saying regulators veered from MRTA’s language. While there is no information regarding when the ban on licensing will be lifted, he ordered regulators to finalize their regulations promptly. In the meantime, many CAURD applicants are left in a holding pattern, uncertain about the future of their businesses.

2. Cannabis farmers markets launch throughout New York State

New York’s first cannabis farmers markets opened this month at multiple locations throughout the state. The CCB opened applications for the innovative Cannabis Growers Showcase (CGS) program last month as a way to expand opportunities for companies to sell their cannabis within the growing NY cannabis scene. The program offers a unique platform for licensed cultivators and processors to showcase their products.

One such grower’s market, location in New Paltz’s municipal parking lot, will be open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays and 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays. This schedule will continue weekly until the end of 2023 or until a dispensary opens in the village. Visit the OCM’s website to find a full list of grower’s showcases throughout the state.

To receive approval for the CGS, applicants must have at least three licensed adult-use cannabis cultivators and one conditional retail licensee. For every three additional cultivators, another provisional vendor must be included at the event. Applications to participate will remain open until December 1st, 2023. 

3. Cannabis delivery licenses to open soon in New Jersey 

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) is set to open license applications for cannabis delivery in the state next month, on Sept. 27. According to the state’s website, license applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until indicated otherwise. Social Equity Businesses, Diversely-Owned Businesses, Impact Zone Businesses, and applications that receive bonus points in relevant categories will be afforded priority review, scoring, and approval.

Recreational cannabis businesses may use the opening of these licenses as an opportunity to integrate vertically. This strategy allows operators to hold any combination of a cultivator license, a manufacturer license, a retailer license, and a delivery service license simultaneously or hold a wholesale and a distributor license simultaneously. All recreational license holders can have only one business in each class. 

4. New Jersey approves 41 retail licenses

In a special meeting held August 18th, the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJCRC) approved 41 additional licenses for retail locations throughout the state. Many of the approvals were for conditional conversion applications, which are dispensaries that have already received their conditional license and are awaiting permission for their final license. Several annual licenses were also approved during the meeting.

5. NJ Contributes $5 Million of Cannabis Revenue to Violence Prevention Programs

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) and Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin recently announced that revenue from the state’s legal cannabis program will cover a third of the cost of Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) programs in the state. These programs are aimed at violence intervention and prevention in New Jersey and use various strategies such as mentoring programs, street outreach, and trauma support services in communities and among populations associated with risk factors for exposure to violence.

Of the $15 million in grant money that will be available through the program, $5 million comes from the state’s Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Fund. 

According to a press release, this is just one portion of the $40 million that Gov. Murphy has directed to help facilitate CVBI Programs since 2021. The fund, which was established through the state’s cannabis legalization law, consists of monies from taxes on legal cannabis sales, industry fees, and civil penalties.  

“For far too long, pockets of our state have been scarred by violence. And, since day one of our Administration, we have been committed to solving this problem,” Murphy said in a press statement. “Through initiatives such as the [CBVI] Programs, we have made great strides on that pledge. I am incredibly grateful for Attorney General Platkin and his team’s steadfast dedication to reducing violence in our state and creating a safer community for all.”

Navigating change with CWCBExpo

These shifts in the cannabis landscape showcase the industry’s dynamic nature on the East Coast and beyond. As regulations continue to evolve, it’s crucial to stay in the loop with trusted and reliable sources. With CWCBExpo’s monthly news updates and in-person conferences, you can stay in the loop with real-time insights into the ever-evolving world of cannabis. 

By CWCBExpo

July 2023 Regional News Update: PA Inches Closer to Legalization, More Dispensaries Open in NY 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

Exciting developments are shaking up the Northeast as we witness progress in cannabis market expansion. In Connecticut, cannabis enthusiasts are celebrating the state approval of home cultivation, while New Yorkers are watching new dispensaries crop up left and right. Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, the gears are turning toward legalization, with lawmakers introducing adult-use cannabis-related bills in the state. Get ready for the latest updates and insights into the evolving cannabis landscape in the Northeast region. 

Connecticut adults are now permitted to grow cannabis at home 

Connecticut adults ages 21 and older are now officially permitted to grow their own cannabis plants for personal use. The state Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) published a notice to remind the public about the policy change, detailing the rules and encouraging people who choose to participate to cultivate cannabis “responsibly.”

Here’s what you need to know about Connecticut home grow: 

  • Adults 21 and older may cultivate up to six cannabis plants (only three of which can be mature) for personal use
  • The household plant limit is maxed out at 12 (no matter how many adults live in your household)
  • Plants must be grown indoors, outside of public view, and in a secure location that’s inaccessible to underage people and pets
  • Cannabis should be stored in child-resistant packaging post-harvest 

Home grow is a contentious aspect of cannabis legalization, prevailing in some states and remaining prohibited in others. Advocates argue that home grown cannabis can stymie the unlicensed market and is no different than cultivating your own tomatoes, while opponents often feel it may adversely impact dispensary sales and also create health risks related to contamination of improperly grown cannabis.

Bipartisan Pennsylvania senators announce a new legalization bill

Bipartisan Pennsylvania senators have introduced a new bill to legalize cannabis in the state. The proposed legislation by Senators Dan Laughlin (R) and Sharif Street (D) sets the minimum consumption age and provides “appropriate deterrence to keep marijuana out of the hands of anyone under 21.”

“Legalized adult use of marijuana is supported by an overwhelming majority of Pennsylvanians and this legislation accomplishes that while also ensuring safety and social equity,” Laughlin said in a statement. “With neighboring states New Jersey and New York implementing adult use, we have a duty to Pennsylvania taxpayers to legalize adult-use marijuana to avoid losing out on hundreds of millions of dollars of new tax revenue and thousands of new jobs.”

If passed, the bill would legalize recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and older. Additionally, registered medical marijuana patients would be allowed to grow up to five cannabis plants for personal use. Home cultivation of recreational cannabis would not be permitted. 

More adult-use dispensaries open in NYC and Western New York

The first adult-use cannabis dispensaries have opened in the Bronx and Long Island. The Bronx dispensary, called Statis Cannabis Co, opened on July 6th with support from the New York Social Equity Cannabis Investment Fund. The Fund is a program established by Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) to help CAURD licensees meet the costs of establishing adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries. Shortly after, Strain Stars LLC opened on July 8th in Long Island. These dispensaries join a growing number of retailers in Manhattan and the other New York boroughs.

Western New York’s first licensed cannabis dispensary, Dank Dispensary, also opened its doors on July 18th, making waves in the region’s emerging cannabis market. Owner Aaron Vancamp became one of the first to receive a dispensary license in Western New York after spending six years incarcerated on a conviction of cannabis-related charges. Van Camp told Spectrum Local News that the store has plenty of products including “beverages, edibles, vapes, and flowers,” and will continue to stock more products regularly.

Another dispensary, Herbal IQ, is gearing up to open its doors in Depew as well, according to the store owner. The arrival of these dispensaries reflects the expanding landscape of cannabis in Western New York and the growing demand for safe and regulated access to cannabis products. 

New bill in PA could loosen advertising laws for cannabis doctors 

According to current Pennsylvania law, individual physicians or those working in small practices in Pennsylvania can face severe penalties for engaging in certain advertising activities or even mentioning on their website that they can provide state-certified medical marijuana cards. 

However, a recent bill that cleared the state Senate Law and Justice Committee by a 10-to-1 vote aims to eliminate the current advertising restrictions. This comes after the state’s advertising ban was investigated by Spotlight PA, which found that “the restriction and its inconsistent enforcement gave an advantage to largely unregulated certification businesses that stand to rake in millions of dollars each year through courting Pennsylvania medical marijuana patients.” 

If passed, the measure permits doctors to publish short advertisements in local newspapers to advertise that they provide medical marijuana card registration. 

Stay in the know with CWCBExpo

The cannabis industry in the Northeast is undergoing extensive transformation, and CWCBExpo is here to keep you informed every step of the way. Stay tuned to our regional and national news updates for comprehensive coverage and insights into the latest developments shaping the region. Additionally, our annual B2B expo is perfect for networking and building connections with other industry professionals. Together, we can uncover the opportunities that lie ahead in the evolving industry. 

By CWCBExpo

Record Sales in CT, NY and NJ Expand Licensing

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

Welcome to CWCBExpo’s regional cannabis news update, your source for the latest happenings in cannabis legalization, trends, and sales across the Northeast. In this edition, we explore significant strides in cannabis, from groundbreaking moves toward social equity to the thriving market in Connecticut. Read on for some of the biggest developments shaping the East Coast cannabis industry. 

NJCRC moves to prioritize social equity applicants in certain license categories and regions

The NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) announced on June 1st that, in an effort to prioritize applicants who have prior cannabis convictions or live in economically disadvantaged parts of the state, it would exclusively consider social equity applications for one calendar year. Effective September 27th, priority will be given to social equity applicants applying for specific licenses, including wholesale, distributor, and delivery services.  

While social equity applicants already receive priority in licensing, Commissioner Charles Barker pushed for the exclusive consideration of these applicants in an effort to help entrepreneurs who have been hurt by the War on Drugs.

“Based on our current framework, I don’t believe social equity businesses — those most harmed by the failed war on drugs, that represents the people and communities that we want to see in the game — they’re not seeming to make it through the process to be considered for an award, let alone open up a business,” Barker told New Jersey Monitor.

Beginning Sept. 27, 2023, anyone who is not a social equity applicant will be rejected through Sept. 27, 2024. The move will not affect people seeking cultivation, manufacturing, or retail licenses.

New York awards 36 new adult-use retail licenses

The recreational market in New York continues to grow as the state’s Cannabis Control Board recently awarded 36 new adult-use cannabis retail licenses. Among these licenses, seven have been granted to businesses in the Finger Lakes region, marking a significant step forward in expanding access to legal cannabis in the area. 

The additional licenses were awarded following the settlement of a lawsuit that prevented the state of New York from issuing licenses to several regions, including Finger Lakes and Brooklyn. The news brings the total number of adult-use retail licenses in the state to 251. 

While this announcement comes as great news to the approved dispensaries in the Finger Lakes region, there are still many applicants who are waiting for responses. Additionally, the specific timeline for these new licensees to begin operations remains unclear.

New York moves to shut down unlicensed dispensaries

In a major move for the nascent licensed cannabis market, the state is making moves to shut down cannabis dispensaries operating without a license. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a law in May 2023 which criminalizes selling cannabis products without a license, and enforcement of this law rolled out this month.

A joint task force between the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF) began conducting inspections on June 7th. The OCM can now issue fines to cannabis companies operating without a license, with penalties that start at $10,000 and can rise as high as $20,000 per day.

Connecticut recreational sales reach a record high in May, home grow begins

According to recent data published by the State Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), Connecticut’s recreational cannabis market surpassed those of medical cannabis for the first time. The report revealed that adult-use cannabis purchases amounted to approximately $11.5 million, exceeding the $11.2 million generated from medical cannabis sales. 

Adult-use cannabis was legalized in the state in July 2021 and adult-use cannabis sales officially began on January 10th, 2023. During the first month of the adult-use market, the state made more than $5 million from cannabis sales. In May 2023, retailers saw more than twice that amount. Combining both the medical and adult use segments, total cannabis sales for May reached $22.7 million, surpassing the previous monthly record of $22.1 million set in March. 

Meanwhile, the state’s home grow provision is about to begin. Connecticut’s home grow rule allows non-medical consumers over the age of 21 to grow up to three mature and three immature cannabis plants at home beginning July 1, 2023. According to the state’s website, plants must be grown indoors and must not be visible from the street. People who grow their own plants must do so in their primary residence, where individuals under 21 cannot access the plants.

Stay in the loop with CWCBExpo

Staying informed about regulations and evolving trends within the cannabis industry is paramount to positioning your business for success. By staying up to date with resources like CWCBExpo’s monthly news updates, you can adapt your strategies and operations to align with the changing landscape. Attending industry events and expos such as CWCBExpo also provides unparalleled opportunities to network, engage with and gain insight from industry experts. Embrace the power of education, networking, and engagement to propel your business to new heights. 

Smoke Cafe
By CWCBExpo

Progress in PA, Slow but Steady Growth in NY 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

Welcome to CWCBExpo’s monthly regional cannabis news update, bringing you the latest developments in cannabis legalization, sales, trends, and more in the Northeast. This update highlights significant strides made in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York in May 2023, reflecting on the evolving landscape of cannabis acceptance and legalization in the region. From bipartisan initiatives in PA to the slow but steady growth of the adult-use market in New York, we delve into the latest updates shaping the future of cannabis on the East Coast. 

Bipartisan Pennsylvania senators team up on legalization bill

In a significant move toward cannabis reform, bipartisan Pennsylvania senators have joined forces to introduce a new bill aimed at legalizing adult-use cannabis in the state. Spearheaded by Senators Dan Laughlin (R) and Sharif Street (D), the legislation seeks to regulate and tax adult-use cannabis, allowing adults aged 21+ to purchase and possess limited amounts for personal use. 

In the co-sponsorship memo, the senators emphasized that polling efforts have shown adult-use legalization to be supported by “two-thirds of Pennsylvanians and has majority support in rural, suburban, and urban legislative districts.”

“Legalized adult use of marijuana is supported by an overwhelming majority of Pennsylvanians, and this legislation accomplishes that while also ensuring safety and social equity,” Laughlin said in a press release. While the bill has not been officially filed yet, the senators are keen to address the concerns raised during the previous legislative session and have expressed their intent to improve upon their proposal from the last session. 

In addition to legalizing adult use of cannabis, the bill contains social equity provisions facilitating expungements for prior cannabis convictions and prioritizing licensing for people most affected by the War on Drugs.

Majority of New Jerseyans support dispensaries

According to a recent poll conducted by Stockton University, about one-third of New Jersey adults have tried cannabis or cannabis products since adult use dispensaries opened in April 2022. As more and more towns across the state decide whether to allow dispensaries, Stockton’s poll is an indication that New Jerseyans overall remain supportive of legal weed. The survey revealed that 53% of respondents support having dispensaries in their own town, demonstrating a majority endorsement of local access to cannabis products. 

The poll also provided some demographic characteristics of the state’s cannabis consumers, including:

  • Men were more likely than women to have consumed cannabis, by 37% to 28%
  • People under 50 were more likely to have consumed cannabis in the past year, including 43% of 18- to 29-year-olds and 41% in the 30-49 age bracket
  • There were no differences in consumption between different regions of the state and those with or without a college degree
  • Democrats (38%) were more likely to consume cannabis than Republicans (24%) or independents (32%)

Additionally, results showed that a slim majority of respondents were in favor (49%-45%) of allowing lounges in their towns. The poll found a similar split (48%-45%) regarding lounges and cannabis-themed attractions being allowed in tourist towns. With a notable portion of the population having already engaged in New Jersey’s legal cannabis industry, the findings suggest a growing acceptance and normalization of cannabis in the state. 

Adult use sales in New York surpass $16.5 million 

Since the opening of the first dispensary in December, the regulated adult-use cannabis market in New York State has experienced steady growth, surpassing $16.5 million, according to data from state regulators shared during a May 11th Cannabis Control Board Meeting. 

While the figures are encouraging, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the slow start. As of May 2023, only 13 adult-use cannabis retail stores have opened statewide, with four located in Manhattan. A total of 215 conditional adult-use retail dispensary licenses have been issued to date. 

Although state regulations expect revenue to grow steadily in 2023, the limited number of dispensaries raises concerns about equitable access to cannabis products for consumers and the potential for a fully developed and inclusive market. It remains crucial for regulatory and industry participants to address these concerns and encourage the establishment of more outlets to ensure widespread access and promote the growth of a robust and diverse cannabis industry throughout New York State.

Stay informed with CWCBExpo

It’s evident that the Northeast is in the midst of great progress. As we eagerly anticipate further updates and developments, it’s crucial to stay informed. Stay tuned to CWCBExpo for the latest updates and news, as well as our upcoming B2B trade show in New York City. The in-person expo is just around the corner, offering a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals, explore innovative products and services, and stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving cannabis landscape. Join us at CWCBExpo to engage, learn, and contribute to the dynamic cannabis community.

By CWCBExpo

April 2023 Regional Cannabis News: NY Gets A Green Light

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

April marks an important time for the cannabis community, culminating with the celebration of 4/20 (or in some cases, extending those celebrations all month long). We have special cause to celebrate this year as good news abounds for the Northeast cannabis industry. From New York ramping up dispensary licensing to the dropping of cannabis convictions in Connecticut, the region is moving full steam ahead with legalization and standing up a healthy regulated market. Let’s take a closer look at what’s been happening in the Northeast region this month. 

Federal court lifts dispensary injunction in NY, expanding retail

A federal appeals court has lifted part of an injunction that prevented cannabis regulators from issuing licenses for recreational dispensaries in some parts of New York. Previously, The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) was barred from issuing licenses in Brooklyn and four other regions in the state due to a lawsuit claiming that the eligibility criteria favored New York residents over out-of-state residents.

“New York will not reach its goals for an equitable and thriving adult-use cannabis marketplace until all regions are open for business,” State Senator Jeremy Cooney said in a statement.

The lifting of the ban on March 28th removes major obstacles for New York business owners by allowing regulators to issue 108 dispensary licenses in regions no longer under the injunction: Central New York, Western New York, Mid-Hudson, and Brooklyn. With the ban lifted, The OCM gave 53 conditional adult use retail dispensary (CAURD) applications across the Five Boroughs the green light to receive their licenses and officially open up shop. Licensees included CONBUD LLC in Manhattan as well as Buds “R” Us LLC in Queens, and Evija Artworks Inc. 

Connecticut prosecutors drop over 1,500 cannabis cases amid legalization

Connecticut prosecutors have officially dismissed more than 1,500 pending cannabis convictions and modified about 600 others. A report sent to members of the General Assembly’s Judiciary Committee from the Chief State’s Attorney Patrick J. Griffin involved individualized examinations of 4,248 cases involving controlled substances. Prosecutors were tasked with identifying and clearing convictions for activities made legal under the cannabis bill signed into law last year.

This news comes shortly after lawmakers drafted a bill ordering the Division of Criminal Justice to ease the prosecution of any cannabis-only cases as a part of the following up to the full legalization that came in June 2021. 

“It has been the shared position of this committee and the division that persons charged with a possession of a cannabis-type substance offense that has subsequently been decriminalized should not be prosecuted for that offense,” Griffin noted to CT Post. “Thus, identifying these cannabis cases could not be accomplished merely by conducting a computerized review of pending cases. The 4,248 cases statewide, including 2,139 pending and 2,109 in re-arrest status. This was no small task and quite labor intensive.”

New York unveils new cannabis committee on 4/20 

The New York Senate has officially announced a committee dedicated exclusively to cannabis. According to a press release published on 4/20, the committee will “provide an outlet for entrepreneurs, advocates, industry and citizens with an interest in the new marketplace.”

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D) named Sen. Jeremy Cooney the chair of the Senate Cannabis Subcommittee. 

“I am pleased to see the adult-use recreational cannabis market begin to come online in New York, but there is much more to be done,” Cooney said in a statement. “From the beginning, the state legislature committed to doing the hard work of building the most equitable cannabis marketplace in the nation. I fully believe we can meet that goal.”

Just ahead of 4/20, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) also announced that the state is launching a public education campaign encouraging adults to buy cannabis from licensed shops. Coinciding with the “Why Buy Legal New York” campaign, the effort is meant to protect the health and safety of all New Yorkers by providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their cannabis purchases. The campaign will also ensure revenue is used to advance equity and reinvestment goals. 

Staying up-to-date with CWCBExpo

As the industry progresses, we can expect many more exciting developments on the East Coast and beyond. It’s essential that any cannabis business owner or professional stays on top of the most recent news and the nuances of each market in which they operate.

In addition to CWCBExpo’s annual business-to-business conferences, our monthly news round-ups are a great and convenient way to stay in the loop on all local news and events on the East Coast. Subscribe to our email newsletter or follow us on social media to stay plugged into the information that matters to you and your business.

 

By CWCBExpo

March 2023 Regional Cannabis News: New York and Connecticut Markets Continue to Expand

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

March has been a busy month for the Northeast cannabis industry. Significant progress has been made in both New York and Connecticut, as each state continues to establish and grow adult use retail markets. Check out what you need to know about the exciting growth of the cannabis industry throughout the tri-state area in this roundup of the latest regional headlines.

New York doubles the number of adult-use dispensary licenses

The New York Cannabis Control Board and the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) are doubling the number of retail adult-use licenses available in the state from 150 to 300, according to a recent announcement from Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office. As of March 2023, the office has received about 900 applications and issued 66 provisional licenses since adult use cannabis was legalized in 2021. 

Under this newly-authorized expansion, licenses will:

  1. Increase proportionally in each region of the state
  2. Be awarded from the existing pool of qualifying business applicants

The expansion of the licensing system will also allow for the growth of the state’s Seeding Opportunity Initiative, which enables license prioritization for individuals impacted by the prohibition of cannabis and nonprofits aimed to support formerly incarcerated individuals. 

“With this expansion, more entrepreneurs will be able to participate in the first wave of this industry, allowing them to capitalize on the growing demand for cannabis products,” said Tremaine Wright, chair of the Cannabis Control Board, in a press release. “As more businesses enter this market, the innovation and competition will increase, leading to better quality experiences for consumers. The expansion of New York’s cannabis market will benefit everyone involved in this exciting industry.”

First adult-use dispensary opens in upstate NY

The first Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) licensed dispensary opened for sales in the Finger Lakes region of New York, according to an announcement from Gov. Hochul’s office. Owned and operated by Brooklyn native William Durham, the William Jane dispensary is the first in Ithaca, a small city in upstate New York known for its arts and culture scene. 

“With the opening of William Jane in Ithaca, we’re continuing to build an adult-use cannabis industry in our state that works to offset the harms caused by disproportionate arrests made during cannabis prohibition,” Governor Hochul said. “As more dispensaries like this open across New York State, consumers now have the option to buy legal, safer products while also reinvesting in their communities.”

The new dispensary marks a significant milestone for New York’s cannabis industry, as it is the first license upstate to be supported by New York’s Social Equity Cannabis Investment Fund, which provides licenses to open on a short-term basis to start generating capital. The store will operate as a pop-up for the first 30 days. After that, it will close for final construction and then  re-open for the long term. 

Connecticut sales continue to rise

The combined sales total of adult use and medical cannabis in Connecticut reached a combined total of more than $18 million in February 2023, which was the first full calendar month of sales since the launch of adult-use sales in the state earlier this year. According to data released by the State Department of Consumer Protection, adult use cannabis sales hit $7.02 million in February, while medical cannabis sales amounted to $11.4 million. The data does not include taxes collected at the point of sale on transactions. 

The department also made available new data related to adult use cannabis and medical marijuana sales, showing the total number of products sold in each market, as well as the average price per product in each market. In February, medical cannabis patients purchased 316,644 products, and adult use consumers purchased 168,565. The average product price for medical cannabis patients was $36.11 in February, while the average cost of adult-use products was $41.82.

The data released by the State Department of Consumer Protection provides a promising glimpse into the future of Connecticut’s cannabis industry. As the state continues to expand its regulatory framework and more businesses enter the market, it’s likely that sales and revenue will continue to grow. 

Get the full scoop with CWCBExpo

With so much happening in the cannabis industry, staying current and connected with the latest development can be challenging. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis vet or new to the industry, following the CWCBExpo blog and attending our annual B2B conference is the perfect way to stay informed, connected, and ahead of the curve. So be sure to check out the CWCBExpo website and stay up-to-date with the latest news and events in the cannabis industry. 

By CWCBExpo

February 2023 Regional Cannabis News: New Jersey and New York Markets Continue to Expand 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

The start of 2023 has been anything but dull in the Northeast cannabis industry. Licenses are being issued and new dispensaries are opening their doors as the tri-state area’s adult-use industry finally comes online. With this exciting growth comes significant opportunities for cannabis entrepreneurs and professionals throughout the region. Read on to learn more about these latest developments in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut and what they mean for you.

New Jersey ends limits on cultivation licenses, OKs vertical integration

New Jersey’s legalization law, The CREAMM Act, established a statewide cap of 37 large cultivation licenses (known as Class 1 licenses) for the first 24 months of legal adult-use cannabis in the state. At the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) meeting on February 8th, however, the CRC decided to end that cap. Effective February 22, 2023, the move is meant to “spur the continued development of New Jersey’s burgeoning cannabis industry and improve the licensing process,” according to the minutes of the meeting.

Since NJ’s adult-use cannabis industry kicked off, only 17 cultivation facilities have opened in the state. According to the CRC, that is the fewest number among 15 states analyzed. The state would need “nearly 850 more” to meet the national average.

The Permitting and Licensing Committee also reviewed the parameters of the prohibition on certain vertically integrated businesses (businesses that cultivate, manufacture, and sell their own supply direct to consumers.) After February 22, 2023, cannabis license holders will be permitted to hold a cultivator license, a manufacturer license, a retailer license, and a delivery service license at the same time, clearing the way for vertically-integrated operations. Additionally, wholesale license holders can hold a distributor license, and expanded ATCs may cultivate, manufacture, retail, and deliver.

More adult-use dispensaries open in New York

Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) announced the opening of two more licensed adult-use cannabis operations in New York, including the first located outside New York City. The dispensaries follow Housing Works Cannabis Co., which became the first licensed adult-use dispensary in the state when it opened its doors in December 2022. Smacked Village joined shortly after, also in Manhattan on Bleecker Street. Smacked Village is the first adult-use dispensary in New York owned by an individual with a cannabis conviction on their record. 

Just Breathe, a retail location owned and operated jointly by the Broome County Urban League and On Point Cannabis, opened for business February 10th on Court Street in Binghamton. Union Square Travel Agency, the third adult-use cannabis dispensary in New York City, opened in Manhattan and is located on East 13th Street. 

Both Just Breathe and Union Square Travel Agency have ties to non-profits and have opened their doors to large crowds of eager customers, ready to supply various products available, including flower, edibles, vapes, and more. The new dispensaries open amid projections that New York’s cannabis industry will top $1 billion in sales in 2023.

NJCRC calls for feedback on consumption lounges 

Previously, the NJ CRC gave the green light to a proposed framework that would allow medical cannabis dispensaries and adult-use retailers to operate consumption lounges. Now, the NJ CRC is seeking public input on the proposed rules. If finalized, the new rules would allow existing dispensaries to apply to expand their facilities to accommodate onsite consumption.

Written remarks from the public can be submitted here and should include the commenter’s name and affiliation. Feedback and comments can also be sent by mail, with a deadline of March 18th, 2023. All mail should be addressed to Dave Tuason, Deputy Counsel, New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, 225 E. State St., 2nd Floor, Trenton, NJ 08608.

Proposed rules include:  

  • Operators would not be permitted to sell food onsite; however, customers could bring their own or have it delivered. Alcohol and tobacco could not be sold or consumed.
  • Consumption lounges can be indoors, or outdoors in an enclosed space.
  • There must be a 21-plus age requirement with photo identification for entrance.
  • Application fees of $1,000 for all businesses would be required. Microbusinesses would be charged a $1,000 licensing fee, while standard licensing would cost $5,000.

The complete list of proposed rules can be found here. If approved by the CRC, New Jersey will join eight other states that have regulations providing for an on-site use option at dispensaries. 

Connecticut tops $5 million in adult-use sales in January

Connecticut’s adult-use recreational cannabis sales totaled $5.1 million in the industry’s first month of operation, from January 10 to January 31. According to state officials, medical cannabis sales reached $8.2 million during the same period. This data does not include taxes collected at the point of sale on transactions, which adds approximately 20 percent to the retail price of cannabis. This consists of the state’s 6.35% sales tax, a 3% city or town sales tax dedicated, and a 10% to 15% tax based on THC content.

Eight dispensaries have opened in the legal market, each serving medical and recreational customers. More locations are expected to come online over the next several weeks. The sales data was documented using BioTrack, an inventory tracking system set up to monitor the movement of cannabis products within the state. This data will continue to be reported monthly at ct.gov/cannabis.

Stay in the know with CWCBExpo

It’s going to be a big year for the Northeast’s cannabis industry, and staying up to date on new trends and regulations in your area is more essential than ever. Ensure your business is prepared for success by staying up to date with resources like CWCBExpo’s monthly news updates and annual exhibition in New York City. Also, join us at our annual trade show at the Javits Convention Center in New York City on June 1 – June 2, 2023. Register today to secure your chance to hear from the foremost leaders in New York’s cannabis industry and to network with other entrepreneurs and professionals working in the space.

By CWCBExpo

Regional Cannabis News: Sales and Social Equity Progress on the East Coast

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

The new year is off to a great start, with legalization and social equity measures spreading across the Northeast region as the adult use market ramps up. Big strides are being made already in 2023, as New York’s first adult use dispensaries opens their doors to begin sales and Connecticut expunges possession conviction records. Meanwhile, New Jersey’s adult use industry continues to evolve, adding consumption lounges to the mix. Read on to learn more about these developments and how they’re shaping the Northeast cannabis industry.

Adult-use cannabis sales begin in New York

New York officially began the sales of adult-use cannabis products after voters approved the adult use legalization ballot in March 2021. Located at 750 Broadway, Housing Works Cannabis Co .made history in the Empire State, opening their doors at 4:20 PM sharp on Thursday, Dec. 29th to long lines of eager advocates and customers. 

“The first legal adult-use cannabis sales mark a historic milestone in New York’s cannabis industry,” Governor Kathy Hochul (D) shared in a press release. “Today is only the beginning, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to solidify New York as a national model for the safe, equitable, and inclusive industry we are now building.” 

Housing Works Cannabis Co launched as a part of the Seeding Opportunity Initiative, the state’s program to prioritize businesses with at least one justice-involved board member and a mission to create vocational opportunities for those with a prior cannabis conviction. All proceeds of Housing Works Cannabis Co go to support Housing Works, a non-profit dedicated to providing housing, healthcare, and vocational training to thousands of New Yorkers each year. The company is also committed to minimizing its economic footprint by sourcing products from socially and environmentally responsible producers. 

New Jersey approves rules for consumption lounges

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) approved requirements for the consumption sites and fees for businesses that operate them. 

According to the draft rules, the proposed application fee for microbusinesses and standard licenses for facilities would be $1,000. Consumption lounges can choose to operate indoors or outdoors, but all outdoor facilities need to be enclosed. In addition, food items will not be permitted to be sold on-site. However, people could bring their own food or have it delivered. Alcohol and tobacco would be strictly prohibited at all consumption sites.

“Equitable access to cannabis means everyone who wishes to consume has someplace they can do that—legally, safely, and responsibly,” CRC Chair Dianna Houenou said in a press release. “When regulated properly, cannabis consumption areas can strengthen the industry while giving people more choices on where they consume.”

Before the rules are finalized, they will be posted in the New Jersey Register and subject to a 60-day public comment period.

Connecticut governor clears cannabis convictions

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont (D) announced that thousands of cannabis possession convictions in the state would be cleared in January 2023. The state intends to clear records in approximately 44,000 cases using an automated erasure method as an integral part of the governor’s 2021 legalization plan. 

According to the state’s online portal, those who have not had any other criminal convictions for seven or ten years (depending on the conviction) and have completed sentences for all crimes for which that person has been convicted will be eligible for Clean Slate. Eligible offenses include most misdemeanors and most Class D and Class E felonies. Residents whose records are erased by the state may tell employers, landlords, and schools that the conviction never occurred.  

How people will receive erasure will depend on when they received their conviction. For example, people convicted of possessing less than 4 ounces of a non-narcotic, non-hallucinogenic substance between Jan. 1, 2000, and Sept. 30, 2015, will automatically have their records cleared on Jan. 1, 2023.

“[T]housands of people in Connecticut will have low-level cannabis convictions automatically erased due to the cannabis legalization bill we enacted last year,” Governor Lamont said. “Especially as Connecticut employers seek to fill hundreds of thousands of job openings, an old conviction for low-level cannabis possession should not hold someone back from pursuing their career, housing, professional, and educational aspirations.”

Stay in the loop with CWCBExpo

In 2023, the Northeast cannabis industry is just getting started. It’s crucial to stay up to date on changes to trends and regulations in your area and beyond to ensure your business is prepared for success. Stay in the loop with resources like CWCBExpo’s regional news updates and annual exhibitions, where you can meet and connect with industry-leaders from across the nation.

By CWCBExpo

December 2022 Regional Cannabis News: NY and CT Inch Closer to Adult Use Sales

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient regional news round-up highlighting significant developments in the tri-state area and Pennsylvania. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

New York has issued its first adult-use dispensary licenses, New Jersey is putting the finishing touches on its social equity program, and Connecticut could see adult-use sales begin as soon as next year. Each of these developments have brought with them a very real sense that the northeast cannabis industry is finally taking a huge step forward, and we’re absolutely loving it. This month’s regional news round-up spotlights the exciting developments happening in each of these states, keeping you in the loop about the rise of adult-use cannabis in the tri-state area and the Northeast region.

New York awards first recreational retail licenses

The New York State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) approved the first round of recreational cannabis dispensary licenses at a meeting on Monday, November 21st. This news comes a year and a half after the state legalized adult-use cannabis and marks a significant milestone for the state’s industry.

According to reports, the Office of Cannabis Management received more than 900 applications for adult-use dispensary licenses. The CCB approved 36 provisional licensees, including 28 qualifying individuals and eight non-profit Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) applicants. At least one CAURD license was granted in each available region of the state. 

All 36 provisionally-approved dispensaries will receive government-funded turnkey storefronts to operate out of once the market formally launches. Regulators announced that they would allow qualifying businesses to begin sales via delivery while waiting for contractors chosen by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York to build their storefronts.

Initially, 150 social equity licenses were supposed to be available. However, a federal judge issued an injunction temporarily blocking license approval in five regions of the state, including Central New York and Brooklyn. As of this writing, there is no news yet about when the block will be further assessed or lifted. 

New Jersey CRC hears input on social equity

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) gathered for a second public hearing to determine how officials will invest social equity fees raised from legal cannabis sales. The CRC hopes to use these funds to invest in communities disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs and is seeking public comment as to how best to allocate the money.

The state currently adds a $1.10 social equity fee per ounce to all cannabis sold. In January 2023, that fee will increase to $1.52. New Jersey has already brought in more than $219,000 through the social equity excise fees on more than $80 million in sales.

By law, at least “70% of the sales tax collected on adult-use cannabis sales will also go towards communities affected by marijuana-related arrests to further these social justice and equity goals,” according to the press release from Governor Phil Murphy. 

Advocates from all over the state gathered to share ideas and suggestions for how to allocate the social equity fees, including everything from funding for maternal health care for Black residents to investing in youth mental health support to establishing violence reduction initiatives.  

“We should reverse how money was shifted from communities and individuals to law enforcement authorities,” said advocate Jo Anne Zito at the meeting. “My education, employment, housing, mobility, wealth, and family stability were all negatively affected by cannabis arrests — all while Bergen County and the state required me to pay fees and fines.”

The panel will hold one final public hearing to compile feedback into a report for the governor and legislature before making a determination on how the funds will be used. 

Connecticut could see adult use sales as soon as 2023

Adult-use sales of cannabis could begin in Connecticut as soon as 2023 after more than a year of waiting. According to the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), the state is within months of sales, waiting only on the expansion of cultivation capacity throughout the state.

Connecticut state law requires at least 250,000 square feet of growing and manufacturing space to be approved for operation before retail sales can begin, and it is nearing that target now. A press release from the DCP issued on November 22nd said adult-use sales could follow the successful conversion of all four existing medical marijuana producers or the launch of an additional cultivation facility. DCP received that fourth producer conversion application on Nov. 10th, and is currently working with the applicant to review the necessary components for a successful conversion. 

Should that application and conversion be successful in the coming months, Connecticut’s adult-use industry could get off the ground by early 2023, allowing for the first sales of adult-use cannabis since it was legalized in June 2021.

Ring in the new year with a northeast cannabis celebration

Major progress in the tri-state area is a fitting way to ring in the new year, and it means that 2023 will be filled with a flurry of activity. Stay in the loop with all the most important trends and developments impacting your cannabis business by following CWCBExpo’s news updates and informative industry guides.

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