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Adult-Use & Medical — LegalNorth America

New York

New York legalized medical cannabis in 2014 under the Compassionate Care Act and adult-use cannabis in 2021 through the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA), signed by Governor Cuomo on March 31, 2021. The Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the Cannabis Control Board regulate all licensed activity. Retail sales launched in late 2022 through the CAURD (Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary) program prioritizing social equity applicants. As of early 2026, approximately 2,110 active adult-use licenses have been issued, including 484 retail dispensaries, with 582 dispensaries open statewide. Over 57% of all licenses have been awarded to social and economic equity applicants. The state imposes a 9% excise tax plus a THC-based potency tax. The Cannabis Control Board extended all provisional licenses through December 31, 2026.

Ask the Expert about New York
Regulator
New York Office of Cannabis Management
Key Legislation
New York Cannabis Law
Year Legalized
2014
Program Size
2,110 active licenses; 582 dispensari...

Key Facts

  • Adult-use legalized via MRTA in 2021; first retail sales through CAURD social equity program in late 2022
  • 57% of all licenses awarded to social and economic equity applicants
  • 9% state excise tax plus THC-based potency tax on cannabis flower, concentrates, and edibles
  • Cannabis Control Board extended all provisional CAURD and adult-use licenses through December 31, 2026
  • License types include cultivator, processor, distributor, retailer, microbusiness, delivery, and on-site consumption

Key Legislation

New York Cannabis Law (Article 1–14) — Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA)

Regulatory Body

New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM)

Country Info
ISO Code
US
Region
North America
Tier
Tier 1 — Active Program
Status
Adult-Use & Medical — Legal
Sources
New York Cannabis Law — MRTANew York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM)
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.