New York’s legal cannabis market is experiencing a rapid surge, with state officials predicting sales to reach $1 billion by 2025. This growth is driven by increased retail presence, robust enforcement against unlicensed operators, and the introduction of new tools to streamline the licensing process.
New York City’s Operation Padlock, launched in May 2024, has been cracking down on illegal cannabis sales, resulting in the closure of over 1,000 shops. While the initiative has boosted legal cannabis sales and created a more level playing field, questions remain about the legality of the operation and its long-term effectiveness.
