New York’s Cannabis Control Board Powers Up: Subpoenas, Sales, and Sustainability

February’s Cannabis Control Board (CCB) meeting was a pivotal moment in New York's cannabis evolution. Held at Hudson Valley Community College in the city of Troy, the session laid out a bold vision for 2025—ushering in a new era of enforcement and expansion for the state’s legal weed industry. A slew of updates, including a record-breaking sales figure, a game-changing legal tool, and a shift in board membership, signaled that the Empire State is ready to cement its place as a cannabis powerhouse.

The Big Move: New Subpoena Powers for OCM

In a strategic move, the CCB granted the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) enhanced subpoena powers for trade practice investigations. This new power is designed to safeguard the market and ensure legal operators follow the rules. The OCM’s Trade Practices Bureau (TPB) will now have the authority to investigate violations and maintain a level playing field.

Felicia A.B. Reid, Acting Executive Director of OCM, made it clear that this step is critical for building transparency and trust in the market. “Empowering the OCM with subpoena authority enhances our ability to oversee the state’s cannabis industry with integrity," Reid said. It's a move aimed squarely at tightening oversight and protecting the interests of legitimate cannabis businesses, ensuring that the growth of the industry remains sustainable and fair.

Expanding the Market: 74 New Licenses

The board didn’t stop at enforcement. The meeting also saw the approval of 74 new adult-use cannabis licenses, bringing the total number of licensed dispensaries, distributors, processors, and microbusinesses in New York to a staggering 1,510. Among the new licenses were 16 retail dispensary permits, a crucial step toward expanding access and building out the state's retail infrastructure. Three final licenses under the CAURD program—designed to prioritize individuals from communities disproportionately affected by past cannabis criminalization—were also greenlit, bringing the total to 240.

Tremaine Wright, Chairperson of the CCB, emphasized the importance of these approvals for creating a well-regulated market. “We remain focused on ensuring a robust market that benefits entrepreneurs, consumers, and communities,” Wright said, reiterating the state's commitment to fostering an equitable cannabis industry.

Powerful Growth: Over $110 Million in Sales Already

And what about the revenue? Well, New York’s cannabis industry isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. OCM’s latest report showed that just one month into 2025, retail sales had already exceeded $110 million. The state’s cannabis marketplace now boasts more than 300 licensed dispensaries, marking a major milestone for consumer access. With nearly 63% of adult-use licenses owned by Social and Economic Equity (SEE) applicants, and 52% of those owned by women, the state continues to prioritize inclusivity in its legal cannabis boom.

Sustainability in Cannabis: OCM’s Big Win

But it’s not just about sales numbers. At the meeting, OCM received a prestigious SEAL Business Sustainability Award for its PowerScore initiative, which helps cannabis operators adopt more sustainable practices. The award is a recognition of OCM’s leadership in promoting eco-friendly operations within the cannabis space. Through PowerScore, the OCM has set a global example for cannabis sustainability, encouraging licensees to implement practices that reduce their carbon footprint while boosting efficiency.

As cannabis becomes increasingly mainstream, New York’s focus on sustainability will set the tone for other states to follow suit. It’s a win-win: businesses prosper while the planet benefits.

Fresh Faces and New Directions

The meeting also saw a change in leadership. Brad Usher joined the CCB as its newest member, stepping into the role previously held by Dr. Jennifer Gilbert Jenkins, whose contributions to the board were honored by fellow members. Usher, who played a key role in shaping the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, brings a wealth of experience in government and electoral reform, making him an exciting addition to the board as the state moves forward in shaping the future of cannabis.

Looking Ahead

As 2025 continues, New York’s cannabis industry is primed to set new standards in both growth and regulation. From sales milestones to game-changing regulatory powers, the state is not just participating in the cannabis revolution—it’s leading the charge. Whether it’s expanding access, driving economic equity, or setting the stage for a more sustainable future, New York is proving that it has what it takes to remain at the forefront of the legal cannabis movement.

Follow along as the Empire State rolls on, and see where this green wave takes us next.