New York hemp retailers are shutting down after state raids and six-figure tax penalties, according to the Times Union.
Dozens of licensed stores were hit with sudden inspections—some without warrants—and saw products seized under new cannabis rules pushed through in late 2023. Many say they believed their sales were legal, but new state regulations banned popular hemp products without clear notice or testing.
A judge ruled the warrantless raids unconstitutional in January, but appeals and lack of funding stalled relief. Now owners like Sammy Foda are closing up, facing massive tax bills and no clear path forward.
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].