New York’s Crackdown on Illegal Cannabis Drinks
New York is gearing up to address the growing issue of cannabis-based beverages being sold illegally in local grocery stores. A key state official has characterized the situation as “a real disaster waiting to happen.”
Chelsea Davis, who serves as Gov. Kathy Hochul’s deputy secretary for Gaming, Cannabis and Alcohol, expressed her concerns during a panel discussion about alcohol policy. She pointed out that the rampant “black market” for CBD drinks is “untenable,” hinting that this may become a pressing issue for the governor in the upcoming legislative session in Albany.
“I think it’s a real public-health risk and a real disaster waiting to happen,” Davis remarked, emphasizing the seriousness of the problem.
The unsanctioned sale of these cannabis drinks in various bodegas and grocery stores has been ongoing, even though New York state regulations mandate a specific license for such sales. Just this past summer, the Post noticed these drinks being offered at unlicensed delis and grocery stores after Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal urged state regulators to take action.
“I think this status quo is completely untenable,” Davis noted, indicating that a move to regulate these unlicensed sales could arrive next year in Albany.
She also pointed out that these beverages seem to be undermining the cannabis dispensaries that are supporting the still-developing industry. A recent effort in Albany failed to pass legislation allowing liquor stores to sell cannabis drinks.
Policymakers have been cautious about making changes as federal lawmakers have been working on a ban for these drinks, which was set to take effect in November but has since been postponed until December.
Joe Rossi, a cannabis policy expert, acknowledged to the Post that “the marketplace has moved faster than the law.” This disconnect leads to confusion, as consumers often don’t differentiate between hemp-derived THC and cannabis, creating challenges for regulators and consumers alike.
THC is the psychoactive component that can induce a high, whereas hemp contains insufficient THC to typically produce that effect. It’s worth mentioning that not all cannabis drinks are intended to get you high.
Additionally, state lawmakers have proposed legislation that would explicitly allow liquor stores to dispense THC drinks once they obtain a permit.
