In an effort to alleviate the issues plaguing the marijuana industry due to a slow retail rollout, the New York state Cannabis Control Board is expected to pass a measure to permit temporary marijuana sales at venues like fairs, concerts, and festivals.
The move, known as an emergency measure, is intended to provide relief to cultivators, processors, and retail license holders by allowing them to sell their stockpiled crops at these events.
The proposed “growers’ showcase” events would be confined to municipalities that permit cannabis sales and are in compliance with local zoning requirements.
This measure comes in response to challenges posed by a sluggish retail rollout and the rise of illegal marijuana shops since the law was passed in April 2021. Retail license holders have been unable to open stores due to bureaucratic obstacles, with many unable to sell their products, resulting in severe financial situations.
Only 20 retail or delivery only stores have opened since New York legalized marijuana two years ago, with farmers unable to sell their grown cannabis.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].