New York Bill Would Allow Sales of Low-THC Beverages at Liquor Stores
- A proposed bill in New York would allow liquor stores to sell THC beverages with a maximum of 5 milligrams of THC, requiring them to obtain a special permit.
- The bill includes new taxes on low-THC cannabis beverages, with an additional 13% tax on retail sales.
- The bill aims to support small businesses and social equity applicants by allocating a portion of the revenue to loans, grants, technical assistance, and enforcement against illicit operators.
- If approved, the measure would take effect six months after passage and is currently under review by New York’s legislative committees.
A bill proposed in New York would allow sales of THC beverages at liquor stores. Under the proposal, liquor stores would have to obtain a permit to sell the products and only be allowed to carry products with 5 milligrams of THC or less.
The bill would also impose new taxes on low-THC cannabis beverages, including an additional 13% tax on retail sales.
In the justification memo accompanying the bill, sponsored by Sen. Jeremy Cooney (D), the measure would support “small businesses and social and economic equity applicants by dedicating a portion of revenues to loans, grants, technical assistance, and enforcement against illicit operators.”
“New York’s adult-use cannabis market continues to evolve, and consumer demand for low-dose, beverage-based cannabis products has increased significantly. These products are typically lower potency and consumed in a manner similar to other regulated beverages, making them appropriate for sale in controlled retail environments with strong compliance histories.” — S.9220 Justification Memo
If approved, the measure would take effect six months from the date of passage. It is currently in the chamber’s Investigations and Government Operations Committee. A same-as version of the proposal in the House is being considered by the chamber’s Economic Development Committee.