ALBANY- A bill, sponsored by State Senator Michelle Hinchey (D, Saugerties) has been signed into law that extends cannabis cultivator and processor licenses. Last year, Hinchey sponsored legislation signed into law by the Governor to create temporary cannabis cultivator and processor licenses aligning the rollout of New York’s cannabis program with the 2022 growing season so that New York farmers could grow product in time to meet the demand when dispensaries opened their doors. The senator’s latest bill is a move to help mitigate the delays in the rollout of permanent licenses.
Due to delays in the permanent licensure rollout, temporary cultivator and processor licenses are still needed. In addition to extending temporary license until June 30, 2024, the new legislation also extends the program’s social equity goals by requiring conditional license holders to participate in a social equity mentorship program. In the program, license holder are provided training in cannabis cultivation and processing for social and economic equity partners, preparing them for roles in the industry.
“Across New York State, agriculture is a core industry that has shaped our local landscape, economy, and way of life, and I’m proud that four of my bills supporting different needs within this industry have passed the Senate this week,” said Hinchey, who serves as the chair of the State Senate’s Agriculture Committee.
