New York Cannabis Control Board Approves 25 New Licenses, Bringing Statewide Total to 2,322

The New York Cannabis Control Board has approved 25 new adult-use marijuana licenses, bringing the total number issued statewide to 2,322.

The approvals were announced following the Board’s August 6 meeting and include seven cultivator licenses, 10 processor licenses, seven retail dispensary licenses and one Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) license.

“As New York’s cannabis market continues to mature, the Board remains focused on building a regulatory framework that is transparent, predictable, and responsive to the needs of both industry and communities,” said Cannabis Control Board Chair Jessica García. “Today’s actions reflect our commitment to responsible growth, thoughtful oversight, and a marketplace positioned for long-term success.”

During the meeting, regulators also approved 78 adult-use license renewals, nine CAURD renewals, 25 license amendments, two application denials and one processor-cultivator amendment.

Of the 2,322 adult-use licenses issued to date, 275 are cultivators, 248 are distributors, 328 are microbusinesses, 574 are processors, 537 are retail dispensaries and 360 are CAURD licenses. According to the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), 56% of all adult-use licenses have been awarded to Social and Economic Equity applicants.

Among the 25 licenses approved at the latest meeting, 62% went to Social and Economic Equity-owned businesses, including businesses owned by people from communities disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition, minorities, women, distressed farmers and service-disabled veterans.

There are now 705 licensed marijuana dispensaries open for business across New York.

The Board also reviewed recommendations for implementing Community Impact Plans during the first adult-use license renewal cycle. OCM recommended that plans submitted before the 2028 renewal cycle be treated primarily as informational and educational submissions while regulators work to establish clearer guidelines and a framework for measuring statewide community impact.

OCM also announced changes to its market reporting framework, with retail marijuana sales reports moving to a quarterly schedule and cultivation reviews being conducted semiannually. Regulators said summer purchasing patterns have shown notable growth in beverages, pre-rolls and concentrates, particularly ahead of weekends and major events.

The next Cannabis Control Board meeting is scheduled for September 3 in New York City.