Despite 90% Application Failure, New York’s Weed Sales Reach $530M —Governor Hochul Reacts
The New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is undergoing significant changes following a critical May 2024 report from the Office of General Services (OGS).
The report revealed that the OCM had failed to issue cannabis business licenses to 90% of applicants, leading to the departure of former executive director Chris Alexander. Felicia Reid, now serving as the acting chief, has initiated a staff restructuring initiative and enhanced communication processes to address these issues.
Staffing And Licensing Delays
The OCM remains understaffed, with 180 employees, and plans to hire 65 more. Reid has introduced caseworkers to expedite the review of adult-use retail license applications, a process that has faced delays. The department is currently processing around 600 applications from late 2023, with …