NY officials want to ease buffer rule to open more pot shops: 'They must be stoned'

The current rule mandates a 1,000-foot buffer between cannabis shops in New York City, but a proposed waiver for 'public convenience and advantage' lacks defined criteria, sparking community concerns.

Despite recent progress in closing illegal pot stores, the push to ease buffer restrictions is met with criticism, suggesting an increase in tax revenue while maintaining sensible store density.

Councilman Holden criticizes the idea of cramming more pot stores in communities, suggesting a need to lengthen rather than shorten the buffer zones between dispensaries for better regulation.

Industry sources highlight pressure on state officials to relax buffer restrictions due to delays in approving cannabis dispensary applications under Gov. Hochul's administration.

Read at New York Post