Bill > S08332

This bill enacts the "Small Cannabis Farmer Relief Act" to provide support for cannabis farmers who experienced challenges during the 2022 and 2023 calendar years. The legislation allows licensed cannabis cultivators who qualify as "distressed farmer licensees" to apply for an expansion of their cultivation canopy (the total area used to grow non-immature cannabis plants). Eligible licensees can apply to the cannabis regulatory office to expand their cultivation area up to twice the maximum square footage they cultivated in 2022 or 2023, with specific provisions for different types of cultivation methods. For mixed-light cultivation, farmers can add an equivalent amount of canopy up to 25,000 square feet, while outdoor cultivators can add up to one acre of additional growing space. The expansion is subject to the existing canopy maximums established by the regulatory office and must comply with environmental, security, and testing regulations. No additional fees will be charged for these canopy expansions, and microbusiness licensees are also eligible to apply. The bill includes detailed definitions of technical terms like "greenhouse," "hoop house," and "canopy" to provide clarity. The provisions will remain in effect until December 31, 2028, after which they will be automatically repealed.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8332