New York’s legal attitude towards cannabis

How does New York feel about cannabis regulations? Every day the state gets closer to legalizing cannabis. The state’s Cannabis Control Board recently announced some new rules for prospective cannabis retailers.

New York’s legal stance on advertising

New York City’s legal provisions allow television advertising, but they cannot target minors. Likewise, packaging must not depict cartoon characters. Celebrities can’t endorse the product, you can’t get a free toy with purchase, and you can’t use the terms stoner, chronic, weed, or weed.

New York’s licensed cannabis dealers also cannot claim any therapeutic or health benefits. Words like “organic” and “craft” are prohibited. Retailers must not encourage overconsumption or offer discounts.

At a minimum, sellers will be able to promote their products on TV, radio, and social media, just like beer and spirits companies.

Cannabis retailers can sponsor charities or sporting events as long as they are adult-oriented.

Billboards are allowed, but not within 500 feet of schools, recreation centers, playgrounds, daycares, public parks, or libraries.

New York’s legal stance on warning labels

New York law states that any packaging of cannabis flower, edibles, or concentrates carries a warning label. A red circle with 21+, the New York State logo and a yellow cannabis flower in a triangle to indicate the product contains THC.

Another warning sign reads: “KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND PETS”.

The labeling reminds customers that they must be 21 years of age or older to consume the product. Pregnant women should also not use the product.

Like Canada’s regime of rotating warning labels, not every package will have the same propaganda. One box could warn breastfeeding women, the other that “cannabis can be debilitating and habit forming.” Or that smoking or vaping could be harmful to your health.

Labels must also include serving size, potency, ingredients, and storage instructions.

NYC Legal Weed When?

New York State announced last spring that it would legalize recreational cannabis. Neighboring states like New Jersey and Massachusetts have already legalized cannabis.

Since taking office, Gov. Kathy Hochul has issued licenses for farmers to grow cannabis. She also announced that residents with convicted cannabis offenses would receive the first batch of retail licenses.

New York’s legal stance on cannabis certainly differs from other jurisdictions.

Expect state bureaucrats to complete the permitting process by the fall, likely making cannabis available for the 2022 holiday season.

If you live in New York or visit the city often, you may also be interested in the article on the status of recreational cannabis in New York. Please click here to read.