New York Office of Cannabis Management to Launch First-in-the-Nation Cannabis Care and Health Equity Center

The New York State Office of Cannabis Management will hold a launch event Thursday for what it describes as the nation’s first Center of Excellence for Cannabis Care and Health Equity.

The event is scheduled for June 25 at 10 a.m. at Albany Medical Center’s Huyck Auditorium. According to the Office of Cannabis Management, the center is designed to provide healthcare systems and clinicians with evidence-based cannabis education, resources and tools, while improving communication between patients and providers.

The office says the initiative is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 State of the State agenda and will focus on the role cannabis education can play in advancing public health and health equity across New York.

The launch event is expected to include remarks from healthcare and public health leaders, a two-person panel discussion and media availability. Scheduled participants include John Kagia, executive director of the Office of Cannabis Management, Dr. June Chin, the agency’s chief medical officer, Albany Medical Center leadership and state elected officials.

The advisory also lists a panel discussion involving Dr. Junella Chin and Albany Medical College Dean Dr. Alan Boulos, along with Dr. Charles Argoff. The event will include photo and B-roll opportunities for members of the press.

Members of the press planning to attend are asked to RSVP to Press@ocm.ny.gov.