Kathy Hochul to allow legal weed sales at NY farmers markets, festivals and concerts this summer
New York state officials have announced plans to allow the sale of marijuana and other cannabis products at farmers markets, festivals and concerts this summer, in a bid to support struggling farmers who are unable to shift large stockpiles of the drug. As we previously reported, farmers in the state are currently holding onto 300,000 pounds of marijuana, which is losing potency due to the state’s slow rollout of licensed cannabis shops, with just 13 outlets currently open. The Office of Cannabis Management is set to introduce farmers markets in partnership with retailers, where at least three different marijuana farmers would need to team up with a cannabis retail licensee. All taxes that are currently paid by farmers and cannabis stores will apply, however, recreational use of the drug will not be permitted on the premises.
FAQs:
What is the reason for allowing the sale of marijuana at farmers markets, festivals and concerts this summer?
The move is aimed at supporting struggling farmers in the state who are currently holding 300,000 pounds of marijuana, which is losing potency due to the slow roll out of licensed cannabis shops.
Will recreational use of marijuana be allowed on the premises?
No, customers will not be allowed to smoke weed on the premises.
What will be available for purchase at the farmers markets?
Customers will be able to buy flowered product, pre-rolled joints and THC-infused edibles.
What are the key requirements for farmers to participate in the markets?
At least three different farmers would need to team up with a cannabis retail licensee, and all current taxes paid by the farmer’s and cannabis store licensees would apply.

NY Farmers Markets, Festivals, and Concerts to Sell Legal Weed this Summer under Kathy Hochul’s Leadership
New York State Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration has announced plans to permit the sale of marijuana and cannabis products at farmers markets, festivals, and concerts across the state. The aim is to relieve struggling farmers of a massive stockpile of over 300,000 lbs. of marijuana, which is losing potency due to the slow rollout of licensed cannabis shops. The Office of Cannabis Management is currently working on the rules for the program, which could begin in July, and will require at least three different farmers to team up with a licensed cannabis retailer. Customers will be allowed to buy pre-rolled joints, THC-infused edibles, and flowered products, but smoking on the premises will not be permitted. State regulators hope the move will provide a much-needed boost for the budding industry and showcase its potential to both New Yorkers and the wider world. However, the program could face opposition from communities as cannabis sales on government property parks and regions that prohibit cannabis stores would be forbidden.