East to West, Farmers Are the Best

New York Cannabis Regulators Face Accountability Questions Amidst Rollout Challenges

New York's?cannabis program rollout?has been marred by controversies and challenges from the start. A private meeting held yesterday by regulators aimed to address the grievances of industry stakeholders and provide updates on the state's initiatives. However, what started as a hopeful gathering quickly turned into a heated exchange, with attendees expressing frustration over the lack of financial transparency from top officials,?reported?Cannabis Insider.

The meeting, which lasted two hours and involved Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) licensees, the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), unveiled several new initiatives. These initiatives include a modified loan program for CAURD holders, changes to DASNY's turnkey storefronts, and the introduction of a database for checking zoning locations.

Striving for Social Equity in New York's Cannabis Industry: A Call for Action

The Cannabis Farmers Alliance (CFA), along with several social equity groups from across the State, voiced their collective call for action this week on the steps of the New York State Assembly and Senate to challenge proposed legislation by Senator Jeremy Cooney.

According to the collective, the legislation, if passed, would allow Multi-State Medical Operators or RO’s to enter the adult recreational cannabis market three years ahead of schedule by?paying a $20 million entry fee.?The CFA and its allies argue that this move undermines the social equity goals set forth by The Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) and would give powerful operators control over the industry.

Specifically, they argue that without clear guidelines and adequate funding for the initial beneficiaries of the MRTA, lobbyists and special interests could quickly come to dominate the industry with mass-produced, low-quality products and environmentally damaging operations. This outcome would marginalize already distressed farmers, minorities, women, veterans, disabled individuals, and legacy cannabis operators, undermining the core intentions of the legislation.

California Bill Would Allow for Food, Drink and Cannabis Under One Roof

California is one step closer to allowing the sale of food and non-alcoholic beverages inside legal cannabis dispensaries.

The state's assembly passed a bill that would grant localities the authority to approve such sales, overturning the current prohibition on serving food and drinks in recreational marijuana shops. The bill, introduced by State Assemblyman Matt Haney, will now be presented to the state senate for approval.

The existing regulations that restrict the sale of food and beverages in cannabis dispensaries are viewed as outdated and nonsensical by proponents of the bill. Haney highlighted the financial impact of these restrictions, explaining that many legal cannabis shops are losing out on potential revenue due to the inability to diversify their businesses. He emphasized the strong demand for these offerings and noted that the idea for the bill originated from shop owners themselves.

New York Takes Decisive Action Against Unlicensed Cannabis Stores

In a resolute move to protect public safety, consumer well-being, and the integrity of the legal cannabis market, New York State has launched an interagency initiative to shut down unlicensed cannabis storefronts and trucks.?

Governor Kathy Hochul, through empowering legislation signed into law in the FY24 Budget, has enabled the New York State Office of Cannabis Management and Department of Taxation and Finance to execute product seizures, issue violation notices, and take enforcement actions against unlicensed operators. These actions are crucial to upholding the promises of an equitable cannabis rollout and generating funds for social equity programs.

Strain of the Week: Grand Daddy Purple

If you're searching for a strain that combines potency, delectable flavors, and a rich history, look no further than Grand Daddy Purple. This famous strain, born from a cross between Big Bud and Purple Urkle, boasts an average THC content of 21% and offers a variety of delicious candy-like flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. As an Indica-dominant strain, Grand Daddy Purple provides a potent and well-rounded experience, complete with CBD and terpenes that enhance its effects. Let's delve into the finer details of this strain and explore its various aspects.

One of the standout characteristics of Grand Daddy Purple is its remarkable taste. With notes of grapes, berries, and candy, the strain's flavor profile is incredibly appealing. It's reminiscent of indulging in a chocolate bar or savoring a piece of candy, making the consumption experience truly enjoyable. The discrete nature of its candy-like flavors adds to its allure, as it delivers a powerful punch while providing unique and pleasurable sensations.