Bill > A06844

This bill amends New York's penal and cannabis laws to expand and clarify criminal penalties for unauthorized cannabis sales. The legislation introduces new provisions that criminalize selling cannabis without appropriate licensing across three degrees of offenses (third, second, and first degree), depending on the quantity sold and circumstances. Specifically, the bill adds a new offense category targeting commercial establishments, stores, clubs, or facilities that sell cannabis without proper authorization. For individuals, the existing laws are modified to replace gender-specific language with gender-neutral terms like "such person" and to establish penalties for selling cannabis to minors or in quantities exceeding legal limits. The bill also introduces civil penalties for commercial entities, with escalating fines for repeated violations: $10,000 for a first violation, $25,000 for a second violation, and $50,000 for third and subsequent violations. Additionally, any person convicted under these new provisions will be precluded from obtaining future cannabis-related licenses or permits. These changes aim to regulate the cannabis market more strictly and prevent unauthorized sales, particularly to minors and by unlicensed establishments.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6844