Representatives from the state Office of Cannabis Management held a workshop at the Bronx Library Center to help locals learn more about the adult-use cannabis market.  

The OCM is using a statewide roadmap for adult-use applications, making 20 stops across the state. Currently there are five different licenses offered for cultivators, processors, microbusiness, distributors and adult retail dispensaries, which are the most popular licenses.  

These info sessions dive into the requirements to obtain a license and give New Yorkers a glimpse into the legal market.  

“There has been so much confusion among the public about what is legal, what are the rules for the legal market and how can they participate,” said John Kagia, director of policy for the OCM. “These public advocation tours have been vitally critical, particularly in the underserved communities because of the way cannabis prohibition was enforced.” 

Under state law, 50% of licenses must go to social and economic equity applicants, including minority- and woman-owned businesses and people who have had previous cannabis convictions.  

The OCM says it hopes to issue 1,015 licenses through this statewide roadmap program.  

The adult use licensing application is open through Dec. 18.