Gov. Hochul signs bill to fast-track marijuana growing in New York

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a conditional cannabis cultivation bill Tuesday that will allow some New York hemp farmers to grow cannabis beginning this spring.

According to the governor’s office, the conditional licenses will fast-track the state’s adult-use cannabis program while also helping New York farmers.

State officials say leading with these cultivation licenses will help ensure that produces are available to launch for the forthcoming adult-use program. According to the governor, provisions in the bill are included to ensure equity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.Flying with weed: It’s OK to have this much marijuana in New York airports 

“I am proud to sign this bill, which positions New York’s farmers to be the first to grow cannabis and jumpstart the safe, equitable and inclusive new industry we are building,” Gov. Hochul said. “New York State will continue to lead the way in delivering on our commitment to bring economic opportunity and growth to every New Yorker in every corner of our great state.”

According to the governor’s office, with a conditional adult-use cannabis cultivation license, farmers can grow outdoors or in a greenhouse for up to two years from the issuance of the license. It also allows them to manufacture and distribute cannabis flower products without holding an adult-use processor or distributor license, until June 1, 2023. [Read more at MyTwinTiers.com]