Explore the latest updates below:
To support licensees during the Seed-to-Sale transition, the Office is reducing implementation costs—starting with free Metrc retail item tags for licensees.
Key updates include:
- December 17, 2025: Cultivators, processors, distributors, labs, and microbusinesses (excluding retail activities) must have all existing inventory entered into Metrc.
- January 12, 2026: Retailers must have all existing inventory entered into Metrc to enter existing inventory.
- 20 million Retail Item UIDs provided at no cost to licensed processors through 2026. Each processor will receive 30,000 UIDs—with no added cost or extra steps, easing the financial and operational burden of implementation.
For more details and ongoing training resources, visit the STS page.
The federal process to reschedule cannabis is officially underway—a significant development that could shape the future of cannabis regulation, research, and patient care nationwide.
If finalized, rescheduling could bring meaningful changes, including:
- Tax relief for licensed businesses through the end of IRC §280E, allowing standard business deductions
- Expanded opportunities for cannabis research, reducing long-standing federal barriers
- Stronger intellectual property protections, supporting innovation and brand development
- Reduced stigma in medical settings, helping normalize cannabis as part of patient care
While federal rescheduling would not change New York’s cannabis laws, it could create a more stable, research-driven, and economically sustainable environment for the industry. OCM will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as the process moves forward.
The Office is proud to introduce New York’s first Cannabis Education Advisory Panel (CEAP)—a statewide group of 15 experts selected to help shape youth-focused cannabis education rooted in evidence, equity, and community trust.
Convened by OCM’s Health and Scientific Affairs Unit, CEAP will review educational materials, identify emerging youth trends, and offer guidance to ensure cannabis education is aligned with best practices in adolescent health and development.
By embedding expert and community review into its education efforts, the Office is strengthening transparency, reducing stigma, and building trust with young people and the trusted adults in their lives.
The Cannabis Control Board (CCB) approved 42 new adult-use licenses at its December 18 meeting, bringing the total number of adult-use licenses issued statewide to 2,066. Of this month’s approvals, 43% were awarded to Social and Economic Equity (SEE) applicants, reinforcing New York’s commitment to equitable participation as the market continues to mature.
Across the full adult-use market, 57% of all licenses statewide are held by SEE businesses, with particularly strong representation among retail dispensaries and microbusinesses. As of December, 545 legal dispensaries are operating across the Empire State.
As New Yorkers ring in the new year, the Office reminds adults 21+ to celebrate responsibly and prioritize safety.
Key reminders for New Year’s celebrations:
- Plan ahead for a sober ride home using a designated driver, taxi, or rideshare
- Keep cannabis products sealed and in original packaging while traveling
- Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol
- Use planning tools like New York’s Have a Plan app to make safer choices
Adult-use license renewal applications are now available. Licensees are reminded that renewal applications must be submitted 60–120 days before license expiration. Submitting early helps avoid processing delays and supports continuous operations. A Sample Renewal Application is live to help licensees prepare.
Curious how New York State grants work?
Join the Office in Mount Vernon on Wednesday, January 13, 2026 for Grant Readiness 101—a session designed to help nonprofits and community-based organizations navigate the grant process, understand funding options, and prepare for pre-qualification.
Sean Hocking
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