New York's first legal cannabis store to open on December 29

New York's first legal adult-use cannabis store will open its doors next Thursday, December 29, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul's office.

«Just nine months ago, we decided to get New York’s adult-use cannabis market off to a good start” by prioritizing equity, »And today, we are achieving that goal. The industry will continue to grow from here, creating inclusive opportunities in every corner of New York State, with revenue going toward our schools and the revitalization of our communities,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.

The clinic, Housing Works Cannabis, is a nonprofit charitable organization located near St. Mark’s Place in Manhattan’s East Village.

Sasha Nutgent, director of the Housing Works store, called the launch a «unique moment.».

«We look forward to taking the lead as a model of social equity for the U.S. cannabis industry, specifically through our hiring practices and our ongoing support for people and to communities disproportionately affected »by the unjust war on drugs," said Sasha Nutgent.

«I’m thrilled that a nonprofit organization like Housing Works, which supports formerly incarcerated individuals, is leading the way in sales,» said Tremaine Wright, president of the Cannabis Control Board, New York State’s cannabis regulatory agency.

«The launch of sales through the initiative” Seeding Opportunity »is just the beginning of the robust ecosystem we are building—a fair and inclusive marketplace will grow from here, with support every step of the way to ensure that licensees are able to overcome obstacles and build this new industry."

So far, New York’s cannabis regulators have issued 36 cannabis dispensary licenses for adults, including 28 to businesses and 8 to nonprofit organizations such as Housing Works.

To obtain one of the non-profit retail licenses, businesses must have at least one board member with a criminal record and must provide employment opportunities to individuals who have been convicted of cannabis use or possession.