A rise in adult cannabis use across New York has public health advocates urging lawmakers to crack down on public consumption, according to a state Health Department report.
From 2021 to 2023, the number of adults regularly using cannabis jumped 17%, with nearly half of those users consuming it almost daily. Young adults and LGBTQ individuals show the highest rates. Critics warn the trend mirrors past tobacco crises and say state leaders are too focused on tax gains over health.
Some propose limiting product potency and launching health risk campaigns, while others push to eliminate taxes on medical cannabis. A new bill could allow out-of-state medical users to access New York dispensaries if signed by Gov. Hochul by year’s end.
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