Gov. Hochul signs Conditional Cannabis Cultivation Bill

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed a bill that creates a new license for adult-use cannabis growers, creating a pathway for hemp farmers in New York to apply for a conditional license to grow cannabis in the current 2022 season.

Hemp farmers had been pushing for Hochul to sign the bill, as it was passed by the state legislature on Feb. 16.

There are specific requirements licensed cannabis farmers must meet, including safe and environmentally friendly cultivation practices.

The cannabis growing season is coming up within a few weeks, but applications still must be approved. Thus, this step was vital for hemp farmers to not lose money this year.