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Justice for All? A Cannabis Social Equity Panel Discussion | presented by The Bluntness
Justice for All? A Cannabis Social Equity Panel Discussion | presented by The Bluntness
Bluntness Media
Industry

WATCH: Social Equity in Cannabis is Broken

The Bluntness recently hosted its first ever panel discussion featuring industry experts from California and New York.

The panel was guest moderated by Juliana Whitney, president at CANN Strategy, an organization that helps vision-driven cannabis businesses reach their full potential. 


Joining Whitney was David Hernandez, COO of NYC-based cannabis lifestyle Happy Munkey; Christine De La Rosa, CEO of The People’s Ecosystem and managing member of The People’s Group, both of which promote community empowerment and stereotype erasure; Ophelia Chong, founder of Stock Pot Images and Asian Americans for Cannabis Education; and Solonje Burnett, co-founder and CEO of Brooklyn-based Humble Bloom, a cannabis education and advocacy platform. 

Whitney and her four guests discussed the continued need for social equity in cannabis – which has thus far been nothing more than an empty promise wrapped up in a pretty bow – and how the legacy members of the industry have been banning together to take this progress upon themselves by pushing social equity forward on their terms.

Getting Blunt about Social Equity in Cannabis

The panel dove specifically into New York, as one of the newest developing cannabis markets in the nation. While social equity hasn’t actually accomplished anything throughout the years and across the nation, the panelists encourage the community to keep a close eye on NYC and their promises to right these wrongs. 

To take it a step further, Whitney encouraged the panelists to dig into their idea of a well-executed program, which would actually support the disadvantaged groups it promised to in the first place.

The panelists highlighted some of the major issues with today’s version of social equity that need to be addressed, like Oakland’s neverending hamster wheel of giving minority applicants loans rather than grants and then subjecting them to a strict and stressful collections program, the lack of proper resources at the Department of Cannabis Regulation in Los Angeles to actually push anything forward, and the backroom, politically-fueled dealings of licenses – all of which leaves social equity as a whole completely set up to fail. 

While all of the experts agree that the West Coast’s approach to social equity has largely been a failure, they remain hopeful that sharing this information and remaining vocal about what’s gone wrong will help inform stronger and more intentional efforts from the East Coast – but, no one is holding their breath. 

Beyond the collective frustration with cannabis’s lack of the justice the community has been promised, Whitney and the panelists discussed what states’ cannabis advisory committees should actually look like to properly reflect the experience of the legacy industry, how systemic racism continues to have its hands in every aspect of the country (and globe), and how necessary it is to flesh out these issues before cannabis becomes a fully legal industry. 

Watch the full panel with The Bluntness to hear the four experts expand on their invaluable knowledge and experience in the cannabis industry, both legacy and legal. 

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Cannabis Cafes vs. Bars: California’s New Frontier in Social Consumption

California Governor Gavin Newsom signs Assembly Bill 1775 allowing dispensaries to serve hot food and nonalcoholic beverages - The Bluntness

Industry

Cannabis Cafes vs. Bars: CA's Social Shift

As cannabis lounges emerge across California, the debate over health risks and the double standards between cannabis and alcohol consumption heats up.

California's decision to legalize "cannabis cafes" marks a notable shift in the state's cannabis culture, but it also reignites the long-standing debate around public health, worker safety, and the ongoing disparity between cannabis and alcohol consumption. Assembly Bill 1775, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, allows dispensaries to prepare and serve hot food and nonalcoholic beverages, transforming them into cannabis-friendly social hubs. While this move aims to reinvigorate the state's nightlife and support the heavily taxed legal cannabis industry, it also underscores the stark differences between how cannabis and alcohol are treated under the law.

Cannabis Lounges vs. Bars: The Double Standard

In California, the juxtaposition of cannabis lounges and traditional bars highlights a glaring disparity. Alcohol consumption has been normalized in public spaces for decades, with bars and restaurants being common venues for social drinking. Alcohol’s health risks are well-documented, yet society largely accepts the presence of bars where alcohol is served freely. Patrons and workers are exposed to the environment, and aside from basic regulations like age restrictions and serving limits, alcohol consumption remains broadly accessible in social settings.

Cannabis, however, faces an entirely different reality. Despite its legalization for recreational use, the stigma surrounding its consumption persists. The cannabis cafe model, which draws inspiration from Amsterdam’s long-standing coffee shop culture, offers a space for social consumption, yet is fraught with more complex regulations. Patrons in California’s newly legalized cannabis cafes can enjoy a joint with their meal or nonalcoholic drink, but secondhand smoke concerns have put these venues under far more scrutiny than their alcohol-serving counterparts.

Health Concerns and Worker Safety

The heart of the opposition to Assembly Bill 1775 lies in concerns over secondhand cannabis smoke. Public health groups, such as the American Cancer Society, have argued that cannabis smoke poses even greater risks than tobacco smoke, with potential for increased cardiovascular disease, lung irritation, and asthma attacks. These concerns mirror those once raised about indoor smoking in bars and restaurants before smoking bans took effect. The state’s decades-long effort to create smoke-free environments now clashes with the cannabis industry's push for public consumption spaces.

Proponents of the bill argue that robust ventilation systems, along with safety measures for workers such as respirator masks, will mitigate these risks. However, skeptics, including Jim Knox of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, dismiss these precautions as insufficient. "You cannot isolate smoke—it can’t be done," he asserts, pointing out that ventilation systems won’t fully prevent the migration of smoke to other parts of the building or nearby areas.

Yet, it’s hard to ignore the hypocrisy here: While bars are filled with patrons drinking alcohol, a substance responsible for countless health problems and social issues, cannabis lounges face backlash for allowing patrons to smoke in a controlled environment. Alcohol-related incidents, including DUIs, accidents, and violence, continue to burden public health systems, yet no such widespread stigma or restrictions apply to bars.

Economic Impact and Cultural Relevance

Supporters of the cannabis cafe model believe it will revitalize the legal market, providing a much-needed boost to an industry struggling under high taxes and competition from illegal sellers. Assemblymember Matt Haney, who authored the bill, envisions cannabis cafes as a vital part of California’s future, helping to normalize recreational cannabis and challenge the illicit market. By offering a more welcoming environment for cannabis consumption, these cafes could shift the landscape of nightlife in the state, merging cannabis culture with live entertainment, food, and social experiences.

For cannabis consumers, the ability to partake in a social setting represents a cultural milestone. For years, cannabis has been largely relegated to private spaces due to legal restrictions and lingering stigma. The emergence of cannabis lounges challenges that narrative, positioning cannabis consumption as a normal, social activity—much like grabbing drinks at a bar.

However, this shift is not without its challenges. The balance between promoting the legal cannabis market and protecting public health will be a delicate one. Governor Newsom has already signaled that if worker safety and public health are compromised, further regulation or even reconsideration of the law could follow. Local governments will have to tread carefully as they implement the law, considering both the economic benefits and the potential health risks associated with cannabis consumption in public spaces.

A New Chapter in Cannabis Normalization?

Cannabis lounges represent a step toward normalizing cannabis use, yet they also reflect the ongoing disparity between cannabis and alcohol. As cannabis lounges begin to open across California, they will test whether the public is ready to accept cannabis in the same way they have embraced alcohol—despite the far-reaching public health concerns that have accompanied both substances.

The path forward for cannabis consumption in public settings will depend on how effectively these new venues can address health and safety concerns, while also providing a safe, enjoyable experience for patrons. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, the emergence of these social spaces could redefine the way we think about consumption and community, helping to bridge the gap between the stigma of cannabis and the long-established culture of alcohol.

California’s cannabis cafes could very well become the next frontier in the state’s cannabis journey, merging styles, tastes, and experiences in ways that push the boundaries of the law and public perception. How society navigates the smoke—both literally and figuratively—will determine the future of cannabis as a social experience.

Article Summary:

  • California’s new cannabis cafes, legalized by Assembly Bill 1775, will allow dispensaries to serve hot food, nonalcoholic drinks, and host live events, transforming them into social consumption lounges.
  • Public health concerns over secondhand cannabis smoke, particularly its potential risks to workers and patrons, have sparked debate, with critics arguing that ventilation systems and protective measures may not be sufficient.
  • The disparity between cannabis and alcohol is highlighted, as cannabis lounges face stricter scrutiny despite alcohol's well-known health risks, challenging societal norms around public consumption.
  • NORML activist to meet with Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss federal cannabis policies
    NORML activist to meet with Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss federal cannabis policies
    Industry

    NORML Activist to Meet with Vice President to Discuss Federal Cannabis Policies

    NORML Activist and Pardon Recipients, hip-hop artist Fat Joe, and Kentucky Governor Andrew Beshear, to Meet With Vice President Harris on Marijuana Reform, Clemency and Justice

    In a significant step towards federal marijuana reform, Vice President Kamala Harris is set to meet with NORML activist Chris Goldstein and two other Presidential marijuana pardon recipients at the White House this Friday. The discussion will center on ongoing efforts by the Biden Administration to address federal cannabis policies.

    Chris Goldstein, a regional NORML coordinator known for his cannabis activism in Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, received a Presidential pardon earlier this year for a misdemeanor marijuana possession conviction dating back to 2014. Goldstein's pardon, along with thousands of others issued by President Joe Biden in October 2022, reflects a growing shift in attitudes towards cannabis at the federal level.

    "These Presidential pardons are a powerful and meaningful action," Goldstein remarked. "They carry a tremendous power of goodwill — not just to those of us who received them, but for the entire country."

    President Biden's decision to pardon individuals with federal convictions for marijuana possession offenses underscores his commitment to criminal justice reform and marijuana policy. In his State of the Union address, President Biden reiterated his belief that "no one should be in jail just for using or possessing marijuana."

    Joining Goldstein at Friday's meeting will be hip-hop artist Fat Joe and Kentucky Governor Andrew Beshear, both of whom have also received Presidential pardons for marijuana-related offenses. Together, they intend to raise awareness about the impact of federal marijuana convictions and advocate for further reform, including the descheduling of cannabis.

    Goldstein emphasized the importance of using the meeting with Vice President Harris to highlight the need for additional federal action, such as descheduling or rescheduling marijuana - i.e. moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. He noted that thousands of individuals are still eligible for pardons, and increased awareness of the pardon process is essential.

    "We will help represent tens of millions of Americans who have been arrested for marijuana in nearly a century of prohibition," Goldstein stated.

    Ahead of the White House meeting, Goldstein and NORML's Political Director Morgan Fox will meet with several members of Congress to discuss marijuana reform. Following Friday's discussion, Goldstein and other NORML staff members will participate in a live session to further engage with the public on this pressing issue.

    The meeting with Vice President Harris marks a significant milestone in the ongoing push for federal marijuana reform, with advocates like Goldstein leading the charge for change. As momentum continues to build, the voices of those impacted by outdated cannabis policies are being heard at the highest levels of government, signaling hope for a more just and equitable future in cannabis regulation.

    Weedmaps: Innovative Online Ordering and Delivery
    Weedmaps: Innovative Online Ordering and Delivery
    Industry

    5 Revolutionary Ways Weedmaps Is Reshaping Access To Cannabis

    Weedmaps is revolutionizing how we access and interact with cannabis products. Since its inception, this innovative platform has redefined the norms of cannabis purchase and education, making it a household name among enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

    It not only connects users with an extensive network of dispensaries and diverse products but also advocates for informed and responsible use. It breaks down barriers, offering seamless and enlightened experiences to users in states where cannabis is legal either recreationally or medically, truly reshaping our approach to cannabis accessibility.

    Comprehensive Dispensary and Product Listings

    Weedmaps is like a cross between Google Maps, Amazon, and Uber Eats, but specifically for cannabis. The platform offers an impressively comprehensive listing of dispensaries and products. Imagine a world where you can find every strain, edible, or topical you've ever dreamed of – that's Weedmaps.

    It’s a treasure trove for cannabis aficionados and newbies, offering a rich catalog of products, complete with detailed descriptions, to satisfy every curiosity and need. Whether you're a fan of the classics or eager to explore the latest in cannabis innovations, Weedmaps makes it effortlessly easy to discover and explore, all with a few clicks.

    Innovative Online Ordering and Delivery

    Gone are the days of confusing cannabis purchases. Weedmaps simplifies the whole process by enabling orders to be reserved with local retailers for pick-up and/or delivery.

    Picture this: selecting your favorite products from the comfort of your home and having them delivered right to your doorstep. Whether you need a quick restock or are eager to try something new, Weedmaps makes it all happen with just a few taps on your screen.

    This seamless integration of technology brings unprecedented convenience and accessibility to the cannabis experience, transforming how we interact with our green favorites.

    Weedmaps is revolutionizing how we access and interact with cannabis productsWeedmaps: Educational Resources and Cannabis Advocacy

    Educational Resources and Cannabis Advocacy

    Weedmaps goes beyond just being a marketplace; it's a hub of knowledge and advocacy in the cannabis world. The platform is rich with educational resources, empowering users to make informed choices about their cannabis journey. They're big on social equity, too, championing initiatives that promote fair access and representation in the cannabis industry.

    This dual commitment to education and social justice reflects Weedmaps' deep-rooted belief in the positive power of cannabis and its potential for societal benefit.

    Community and Customer Reviews

    At the heart of Weedmaps is a thriving community grounded in genuine customer reviews. These reviews are more than just opinions; they guide new users navigating the vast cannabis landscape. They offer insights into the quality of products and the reliability of dispensaries, helping others make informed choices.

    This community-driven approach fosters trust and helps maintain high standards across the platform, ensuring that everyone's cannabis experience is nothing short of excellent.

    Weedmaps is enhancing how we access and interact with cannabis productsWeedmaps is enhancing how we access and interact with cannabis products

    State-of-the-Art Tech for Enhanced User Experience

    Weedmaps isn't just about connecting you to cannabis; it's about enhancing that connection through cutting-edge technology. Their platform is a tech wonderland, offering personalized recommendations that adapt to your preferences and history.

    Location-based searches make finding local dispensaries a breeze, ensuring you're always just a few clicks away from your next cannabis experience. This seamless integration of technology ensures that every interaction with Weedmaps is intuitive, satisfying, and tailored to your individual cannabis journey.

    Weedmaps offers personalized recommendations that adapt to your preferences and history.Weedmaps offers personalized recommendations that adapt to your preferences and history

    Learn More

    Weedmaps stands out as a trailblazer in the cannabis industry, revolutionizing how we access and interact with cannabis. From its vast network of dispensaries fulfilling online orders and deliveries, coupled with educational resources and a robust community of reviews, Weedmaps has reshaped the cannabis experience.

    So click here to dive into this tech-driven, user-friendly platform and learn how it can transform your cannabis journey.

    Please note: We may receive a commission for purchases made through the links in this article.

    40 Tons NY Launch (l-to-r): 40 Tons' COO Anthony Alegrete, Chef for Higher's Hawaii Mike Salman, 40 Tons' Corvain Cooper and CEO Loriel Alegrete.
    40 Tons NY Launch (l-to-r): 40 Tons' COO Anthony Alegrete, Chef for Higher's Hawaii Mike Salman, 40 Tons' Corvain Cooper and CEO Loriel Alegrete.
    40 Tons
    Industry

    Beyond Good Intentions: How 40 Tons is Advancing Real Social Equity in Cannabis

    It is clear for anyone to see, 40 Tons represents the vanguard of mission-driven cannabis brands using business as a force for social repair.

    In the burgeoning legal cannabis industry, it's easy for brands to pay lip service to social justice without taking meaningful action. But California-based 40 Tons is beyond good intentions. Through innovative initiatives centered on employment and education, this Black-owned brand is driving tangible impact for communities harmed by the War on Drugs.

    In a significant move towards both advocating and advancing social equity in New York's budding cannabis industry, 40 Tons, has announced its official entry into the Empire State marketplace through strategic partnerships with HPI Canna

    Founded by Loriel Alegrete, 40 Tons has its roots in a deeply personal journey. 40 Tons was created when her husband, Anthony, and lifelong friend, Corvain Cooper, were unjustly incarcerated on cannabis-related charges. Thankfully, both men have since been released, and together with Loriel, they have transformed 40 Tons into a powerful advocate for restorative justice, decriminalization, legalization and rehabilitation.

    As 40 Tons prepares to make its debut in New York, the brand unveiled a series of unique activations intended to give back to the entire cannabis supply chain. The journey began on Saturday, January 20th, with an appearance at the New York Cannabis Retail Association's (NYCRA) Industry Party in Brooklyn. Set against the backdrop of Bushwick's Fine & Raw Chocolate Factory, this event offered industry stakeholders the first opportunity to network and collaborate with the 40 Tons team. 

    “It's a chance to connect with a brand that stands for social justice and community empowerment,” said NYCRA’s Britni Tantalo.

    For co-founder Corvain Cooper, January 20th also held special significance as it marked the three year anniversary since his release from a life sentence for cannabis. "It feels so empowering to now help create opportunities for those overcoming similar challenges," he shared with Honeysuckle Magazine, underscoring the importance of 40 Tons' mission.

    Corvain Cooper, Co-Founder, 40 Tons40 Tons' Co-Founder Corvain Cooper

    On Sunday, January 21st, 40 Tons held a public launch at CONBUD’s new dispensary at 85 Delancey Street. These events were not only opportunities for the public to engage with the brand but also serve as recruitment forums. 

    With their entry in the New York market, 40 Tons is actively seeking brand ambassadors and account representatives to join their team and further their mission along the East Coast.

    In the near future, consumers in New York will be able to find 40 Tons-branded flower and pre-rolls at state-licensed dispensaries, such as CONBUD. 

    These collaborations extend beyond delivering quality cannabis products; it is a collective effort to support legacy cannabis operators in New York and across the country, from the supply chain to retail, with a strong commitment to advancing social justice initiatives.

    Sephida Artis-Mills, Chief Strategy Officer of HPI Canna, emphasizes their dedication to both quality products and social justice, stating in Honeysuckle Magazine, "This collaboration is the beginning of a collective community effort."

    CONBUD, led by founder and CEO Coss Marte, who himself has a unique origin story which include cannabis convictions, is deeply committed to its mission of employing formerly incarcerated individuals and sharing their stories. 

    Marte believes that the partnership with 40 Tons is a step toward reshaping the national narrative surrounding cannabis, bridging the gap between exceptional cannabis experiences and their shared mission to empower, educate, and uplift those impacted by injustice.

    Beyond merely offering cannabis products, 40 Tons also donates a portion of proceeds to nonviolent cannabis prisoners and provides formerly incarcerated individuals with employment opportunities.

    Their 40 Tons Careers division connects marginalized communities with education and jobs through conferences and partnerships. By actively recruiting top cannabis companies committed to hiring and training system-impacted talent, 40 Tons Careers opens doors for diverse applicants. 

    "We want to empower these communities to thrive in the legal market which they helped establish," said CEO Loriel Alegrete.

    Loriel Alegrete, CEO, 40 Tons40 Tons' CEO Loriel Alegrete

    40 Tons New York welcome tour continued with an exclusive product launch event on Thursday, January 25th, in collaboration with Chef For Higher, an esteemed culinary culture brand led by "Hawaii" Mike Salman. Alongside showcasing their products, 40 Tons previewed a 15-minute documentary and engaged in a fireside chat with attendees.

    40 Tons co-founder and Chief Operations Officer Anthony Alegrete shared his personal connection to New York with Honeysuckle Magazine, saying, "As someone who knows the history and deeply respects the New York culture, it's important to me that these roots are reflected in our brand."

    It is clear for anyone to see, 40 Tons represents the vanguard of mission-driven cannabis brands using business as a force for social repair. By aligning sustainable revenue with community uplift, 40 Tons offers a model for grounded, accountable social equity programs. One that moves beyond rhetoric to drive institutional change.

    As the cannabis industry matures, the principles of inclusion and justice must not be forgotten. 40 Tons' work breathes life into these ideals, forging paths to economic mobility for the communities who suffered most under prohibition.

    Their success only serves to illustrate the positive ripples one ethically focused company can generate. By starting with and focusing on those people most impacted, 40 Tons transforms hardship into hope.

    In summary, 40 Tons' entry into New York's cannabis market is not just about selling cannabis products; it's a powerful statement of commitment to social equity and justice reform. 

    Through partnerships, recruitment efforts, and a passionate team, 40 Tons is set to make a lasting impact, bringing hope and opportunity to those who have been impacted by the injustices of the past. 

    Their touch down in New York simply represents a homecoming, a return to roots, and a promise to reflect the essence of the city in their brand. As the cannabis industry matures here in New York and across the country, it will be brands like 40 Tons that remind us that business can be a force for positive change and community upliftment.

    To that, we say welcome to New York 40 Tons! 

    40 Tons Launches in New York40 Tons Launches in New York

    New York Cannabis Retail Association (NYCRA)
    New York Cannabis Retail Association (NYCRA)
    Industry

    Together We Thrive: New York Cannabis Retail Association's Vision of Collective Progress in Cannabis Retail

    How NYCRA's Mission of Collaboration over Competition is Building a Bridge to the Future of NY Cannabis

    On a bitter cold Saturday night in January, the New York Cannabis Retail Association (NYCRA) hosted one of the most electrifying events of the year for cannabis aficionados and industry insiders. 

    Set to transform the New York cannabis landscape, this soirée in Bushwick, Brooklyn was not just another party; it was a long overdue milestone in the journey of cannabis industry evolution in the Empire State.

    Unlike typical industry meet-ups, this grand event served as a vibrant showcase for over 50 leading cannabis companies in New York’s budding legal cannabis industry with the best of the state’s cannabis retailers, cultivators, processors and service providers including but not limited to On The Revel, Nanticoke, Chef for Higher, Dagmar Cannabis, Feel Good, ConBud, Terp Bros, Honeysuckle Magazine, Airo Brands, Ayrloom, Dutchie, Veterans Choice Creations, Heavy Hitters, AlphaRoot, Jaunty, Jetty Extracts, PAX, Nabis, Cannabis Collective, Temeka Group, Lobo, Kiva, Eureka, Alchemy Pure, Ravens View Genetics, FLAMER, TribeTokes, The Flowery, Park Jordan, FlowerHouse, Ten-Ten Cannabis, NOWAVE, The Heavy Smoke, Asian Cannabis Rountable, Cat Ouelette, StupidDOPE, NY Cannabis Insider, 40 Tons, among many others.

    Among the event’s highlights, social impact brand 40 Tons made its official entrance into New York’s marketplace through partnerships with CONBUD and HPI Canna, a state-licensed processor.

    40 Tons is recognized across the country for its work in providing second chances to people with cannabis convictions, and its efforts to help currently incarcerated citizens. Now, New Yorkers will have the opportunity to support the brand in their own backyard, as sales of their packaged flower and pre-rolls will boost business for dispensaries across the state. 

    With such a large contingent of NY's legal cannabis industry in the building, the event fully embodied NYCRA’s commitment to nurturing a thriving, responsible cannabis market, serving as a hub for connections, knowledge-sharing, and empowerment for cannabis industry professionals. 

    As a non-profit organization, NYCRA is a bastion of support, education, and networking for stakeholders in the cannabis market. it’s a nexus for future-forward ideas and collaborations. 

    On the heels of the New York Cannabis Retail Association (NYCRA) biggest event of 2024, NYCRA also announced a strategic partnership with LeafLink, the nation’s largest wholesale cannabis marketplace, further solidifying its commitment to revolutionizing the New York cannabis landscape.

    The NYCRA and LeafLink Partnership

    The collaboration marks a significant step for both organizations. LeafLink's expertise in creating efficient marketplaces will be instrumental for NYCRA members, helping New York operators to reduce operational costs and streamline business processes. The partnership aims to introduce a cash-back rewards program, offer discounts, and boost advertising opportunities for sellers affiliated with NYCRA.

    Jayson Tantalo, VP of Operations at NYCRA, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its potential to provide members with access to a platform that simplifies transactions and back-office functions. 

    Jayson Tantalo, New York Cannabis Retail AssociationNYCRA Co-Founder and VP Operations, Jayson Tantalo

    Rodney Holcombe, Director of Public Policy at LeafLink, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the support this partnership will offer to retailers in the burgeoning market.

    NYCRA’s 230 members, already engaged in a vibrant community via a dedicated Discord channel, stand to gain significantly from this partnership. LeafLink will provide a secure, efficient platform for these members to expand upon their established relationships. The platform offers functionalities for placing and tracking orders, making payments, and monitoring business activities.

    For brands looking to sell to retailers and already active on the NYCRA Discord channel, LeafLink is offering a 10% discount on annual contracts. This initiative is set to enhance visibility and sales opportunities for these brands, further driving the growth of the New York cannabis market.

    Another key feature of this partnership is LeafLink’s Payment Solutions, which offers a cost-effective method for retailers to pay vendors directly through the marketplace. This system not only ensures security and compliance but also reduces the reliance on cash transactions. NYCRA retail members will have the opportunity to earn additional cash back for all 2024 wholesale purchases made through LeafLink’s Payment Solutions.

    NYCRA’s partnership with LeafLink is a testament to its commitment to fostering a thriving and responsible cannabis market in New York and stands as a beacon of innovation and efficiency, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous cannabis community. 

    The NYCRA extends an open invitation to all industry stakeholders to join its ranks. By signing up at newyorkcannabisretailassociation.org/join/, you can be part of this exciting industry transformation. It’s a chance to align with the pioneers and visionaries of the cannabis world.

    For those eager to keep a finger on the pulse of this event, NYCRA is active on Instagram @nycannabisretailassociation. Followers can expect a stream of updates, exclusive content, and info about lobbying efforts. 

    The excitement within the New York cannabis community is palpable and despite all the hurdles faced to date, 2024 is shaping up to be a watershed year for the industry here in the Empire State. 

    Because, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. But let’s be honest, making it here is really all that matters. And, NY cannabis is going to make it, just you watch.

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