New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the state’s adult-use cannabis retail sales will begin on Dec. 29 at a dispensary in Manhattan.
Sales will begin at a dispensary operated by Housing Works, the nation’s largest minority-controlled HIV/AIDS service organization and largest community-based HIV/AIDS service organization.
“We set a course just nine months ago to start New York’s adult-use cannabis market off on the right foot by prioritizing equity, and now, we’re fulfilling that goal,” Hochul said. “The industry will continue to grow from here, creating inclusive opportunity in every corner of New York State with revenues directed to our schools and revitalizing communities.”
Housing Works is a non-profit that operates a range of direct and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS, the homeless, formerly incarcerated, and justice-involved individuals. The initial sale represents a milestone in the Seeding Opportunity Initiative designed to place New York on a path to fulfilling the goals of New York’s Cannabis Law by building an adult-use cannabis industry offsetting harms resulting from the disproportionate impact of cannabis prohibition.
“I’m excited that a non-profit like Housing Works, with its support for formerly incarcerated individuals, will lead the way with sales,” Cannabis Control Board Chairwoman Tremaine Wright said. “The start of sales through the Seeding Opportunity Initiative is just the beginning of the robust ecosystem we’re building – the equitable and inclusive market will grow from here with supports throughout to ensure licensees are able to overcome barriers and build this new industry.”