Five Years High: New York Marks a Major Milestone in Legal Cannabis History

It is hard to believe, but New York is officially celebrating a five-year milestone since green-lighting legal cannabis. Governor Kathy Hochul recently highlighted some massive numbers, including over $3.3 billion in sales and more than 600 licensed dispensaries now serving the Empire State. For the everyday toker, this means the days of meeting a "guy" in a parking lot are fading into memory, replaced by a professional industry focused on social equity and criminal justice reform. If you are in NY, it is a great time to visit a local shop and see how much the selection has grown since those early days.

While the states are celebrating, things are still a bit of a mixed bag at the federal level. The White House is currently deep in meetings regarding the FDA's proposed enforcement policies for CBD. This is actually good news for anyone who uses hemp-derived products for wellness, as it points toward better safety standards and clearer labeling. Meanwhile, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez isn't holding back, pointing out the obvious: the federal government’s claim that cannabis and psychedelics have "no medical value" is completely out of step with modern science.

Down in Texas, the conversation is shifting in a surprising way. Lawmakers there are starting to review hemp products and even clinical trials for ibogaine. Even if you aren't in the Lone Star State, watching traditionally conservative areas explore these options is a huge signal that the "war on drugs" mindset is losing its grip.

One practical heads-up for your wallet: a new industry op-ed is calling out high cannabis taxes. It’s a reminder that if legal weed gets too expensive due to tax hikes, it just drives people back to the legacy market. As enthusiasts, supporting fair tax structures helps keep our local dispensaries affordable and accessible for everyone. From MDMA-assisted therapy showing great results for PTSD to Germany navigating its own rocky legalization path, the movement is clearly global and moving forward. Stay informed, stay vocal, and most importantly, stay lifted!