New York Celebrates 100th Adult-Use Cannabis Store Opening with Gov. Kathy Hochul

In a landmark announcement, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York celebrated a significant achievement for the state’s cannabis industry: the opening of its 100th Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) brick-and-mortar store.

Located in the village of New Paltz near Poughkeepsie, Big Gas became the symbolic centennial store, hosting a grand opening event attended by state officials and community leaders. Owners Kareem Haynesworth and Zymia Lewis expressed pride in being the first licensed cannabis dispensary in the city, attributing their success to support from the New York State Cannabis Investment Fund.

Mayor Tim Rogers of the Village of New Paltz commended the initiative, emphasizing its dual benefits of supporting individuals impacted by past cannabis laws and enhancing public safety through regulated cannabis sales.

Governor Hochul hailed the milestone as a testament to New York’s progress in establishing a safe and legal cannabis industry that benefits entrepreneurs, farmers, and residents statewide.

New York has licensed a total of 110 adult-use cannabis retailers, including storefronts and delivery-only locations, with more expected to open soon. Despite initial delays and legal challenges, the industry is gaining momentum, with total sales surpassing $237 million, indicating a thriving market.

The state has prioritized social equity measures to ensure inclusivity in the industry, with 60% of licenses granted to social and economic equity applicants within the first year of operation. Notably, New York boasts a significantly higher percentage of majority minority-owned cannabis retailers compared to the national average.

Chris Alexander, Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management, expressed pride in the industry’s growth and commitment to diversity, highlighting the role of licensees in shaping a more inclusive sector.

Lavetta Willis, General Principal of Social Equity Impact Ventures LLC, lauded Governor Hochul’s leadership in promoting a socially equitable cannabis market, emphasizing the importance of access in leveling the playing field for all entrepreneurs.

The opening of Big Gas marks a significant step forward in New York’s cannabis journey, symbolizing the state’s commitment to progress, inclusivity, and economic empowerment for all its residents.