Timeline of Cannabis Legalization in New York State

March 2021
Former governor Andrew Cuomo passed the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) legalizing the adult use of recreational marijuana and creating a pathway for legal sales beyond medical. Under this act, the legislation created the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to develop the license and regulations.

June 2021
Hundreds of thousands of marijuana-related criminal charges are suppressed and expunged by the Division Of Criminal Justice Services.

October 2021
Medical dispensaries start selling the ‘whole flower,’ referring to the initial availability of smokable cannabis buds for purchase.

January 2022
Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a $200 million public-private fund to aid social equity applicants intending to launch retail cannabis shops under certain licenses.

April 2022
The first licenses for hemp cultivators are issued for recreational use.

June 2022
The OCM states new rules about packaging and testing rules to ensure branding does not target young people.

August 2022
Applications open for the first dispensaries.

December 2022
New York has its first sale for recreational use in Manhattan.

March 2023
The first dispensary in the Capital Region opens.

Month 2023
High Peaks Canna opens for business!