The New York Senate has passed a bill allowing individuals under parole, probation, or other state supervision to be employed by cannabis licensees.
The bill, introduced by Senator Kevin Parker in February, was approved yesterday with a vote of 45 to 16. The measure amends the existing cannabis law, specifically targeting Section 127, subdivision 6, to expand employment opportunities for those under state supervision.
Under the revised law, individuals on parole, probation, or other state supervision will not face punishment or penalties for engaging in conduct allowed under the cannabis law, provided their supervision terms do not explicitly prohibit such activities.
The bill allows individuals required to be employed as a condition of their parole or probation to fulfill this requirement by working for any licensed cannabis business. This provision stands unless their supervision terms specifically ban employment with cannabis licensees.
The bill received substantial support in the Senate, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to update laws to align with the evolving legal landscape surrounding cannabis. Advocates argue that providing employment opportunities in the cannabis industry can play a vital role in reducing recidivism and promoting economic stability for those re-entering society.
The measure will now be sent to the House of Representatives, and if passed, sent to Governor Kathy Hochul.
