The injunction on obtaining dispensary licenses for the sale of marijuana legally still stands in a handful of regions in New York, including the Finger Lakes. However, eligible applicants are hopeful that the end is near as the state has decided to double the number of licenses it will issue, including those in the regions on hold.
The state’s cannabis program, known as CAURD, saw over 900 applicants, and the state office of cannabis management (OCM) has increased the eligible licenses from 150 to 300. The Finger Lakes region will receive an increase in licenses from nine to 18, which has given hope to business owners.
While the pause still exists for the Finger Lakes region and other areas applicants remain optimistic.
The OCM has filed an appeal to lift the injunction on all affected regions except the Finger Lakes. However, the Tantalos have received strong support from the OCM and believe that when there is an opportunity for deserving licensees, they will have full support.
The OCM’s plan to expand approved licenses is all about ensuring business longevity in the future, according to Trivette Knowles, community outreach manager for the OCM. While the OCM cannot comment on pending litigation, Knowles has confirmed that the cannabis control board will hold a meeting next month where more applicants will be up for license approval.
Applicants are eager to start the next chapter and believe that the injunction will come to an end soon.
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