Hemp Shops Caught In The Crossfire, New York City Vendors Claim Unfair Shutdowns
New York City’s hemp shops are under fire as state regulators intensify efforts to combat illegal cannabis sales. Licensed hemp retailers report being unfairly targeted by Operation Padlock, a statewide initiative focused on shutting down unlicensed cannabis stores.
“They’re shutting down unlicensed marijuana stores, but my hemp clients are collateral damage,” said Joshua Bauchner, a NYC-based attorney representing 12 hemp merchants affected by the crackdown, reported MJBiz.
Many licensed hemp retailers argue they operate legally under federal laws but find themselves caught in the crosshairs of state regulators combating illicit cannabis.
Operation Padlock Vs. The Big Apple’s Hemp Merchants
In early 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul and NYC Mayor Eric Adams launched Operation Padlock to address the widespread issue of illegal cannabis sales. The operation has led to the closure of over 1,000 stores and the seizure of millions of dollars’ worth of cannabinoid products.
However, the crackdown has also impacted licensed New York City hemp merchants who legally sell products under the loophole created by 2018 federal Farm Bill. In some cases, enforcement actions have wrongfully detained hemp shop employees. Arrests of workers during raids have became normal. Just recently …