New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office Delays Plans for Cannabis Farmers Markets

NEW YORK – Plans for cannabis farmers markets in New York State have hit an impasse as Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office puts the idea on hold indefinitely. The proposal, initially introduced by state regulators in May, aimed to establish farmers markets as a solution for cannabis growers facing an excess of unsold crops from 2022.

The state Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) had announced its intention to have operational farmers markets by late June. However, Hochul’s office expressed hesitations and reservations about the concept, according to Brittany Carbone, a licensed cannabis farmer and board member of the Cannabis Association of New York, which represents many of the growers.

Carbone disclosed that there has been no substantial progress on farmers markets thus far. While the governor’s office has not completely dismissed the idea, concerns regarding security, public health, and safety have impeded its implementation. Carbone clarified that the OCM and the Cannabis Control Board are actively advocating for the concept, referring to it as “Grower’s Showcases,” a term believed to be more politically appealing than “farmers markets.”

The delay poses a challenge for financially burdened farmers who are still seeking to offload last year’s surplus crops. The proposed model for farmers markets would comply with existing rules, regulations, security protocols, and safety measures, ensuring it would not resemble a loosely regulated traditional farmers market.

Carbone stressed that the governor’s office must understand that the proposed initiative would not be a free-for-all, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order and compliance. She also revealed that growers and licensed retailers have been engaging with local communities across New York to secure potential market opportunities. In fact, permission was granted for a local cannabis entrepreneur to set up a point-of-sale system and multiple tables for cannabis farmers at the recent Binghamton July Fest.

Carbone estimated that up to 15 local events in the coming months could serve as platforms for cannabis farmers to sell their products in collaboration with licensed retailers. However, the implementation of these markets hinges on the state’s approval and support. The OCM and Cannabis Control Board remain determined to make the initiative a reality, but Carbone emphasized the urgency, highlighting the limited time available for license holders.

OCM spokesman Aaron Ghitelman responded to requests for comment, stating that no final decisions have been made regarding the establishment of farmers markets.

As the uncertainty surrounding the future of cannabis farmers markets continues, industry stakeholders and farmers find themselves at a crossroads, awaiting clarity on the fate of their unsold crops and the potential avenue for future sales.