The New York State Cannabis Control Board held a meeting on Tuesday to provide updates on licensing and new initiatives to assist business owners.
Currently, over 800 adult-use licenses have been issued to cultivators, processors, distributors, and retail dispensaries throughout the state. At least 20 of these licenses were granted in the past month.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the board introduced its CAURD grant program, aimed at supporting adult-use marijuana businesses. Under the program, businesses may qualify for up to $30,000 for equipment and other operational needs.
“Eligible expenses include point of sale hardware, retail space renovations, inventory tracking systems, security systems, secure product storage and transportation, and rent for licensed retail locations,” stated Tabatha Robinson, Deputy Director for Economic Policy for the board.
While the board is not currently accepting grant applications, it plans to do so in the near future.
New York legalized recreational marijuana in March 2021 with the passage of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA). The law allows adults 21 and older to possess and purchase marijuana, permits home cultivation, and it established a legal framework for licensed retail sales, cultivation, and distribution while emphasizing social equity by prioritizing licenses for communities impacted by the War on Drugs.
