Social Equity Up Front: A Progress Report on Cannabis Regulation from New York Officials

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When the Marijuana Regulation and Tax Act became law in New York State in 2021, it set forth a comprehensive regulatory approach to medical and adult-use cannabis for the state. It notably prioritized the greatest possible participation by communities most impacted by prohibition alongside other provisions to advance social justice, public health and safety, and economic development.

On December 29, 2022, the first retail dispensary was officially opened by a non-profit social enterprise, Housing Works—one of eight qualifying non-profits to receive the first dispensary licenses. Another 28 dispensary licenses were issued to “justice-involved” individuals, with more to be issued in the coming year, giving people affected by racially disparate cannabis-related convictions in New York State the first opportunity to establish businesses in the emerging market.

This panel discussion will explore how it is all going and lessons that can be learned by other jurisdictions considering cannabis reforms that place social justice as a top priority.