Four years after legalizing marijuana, New York’s cannabis market has topped $1 billion in sales, but unlicensed shops remain a challenge.

Acting Cannabis Director Felicia Reid said the state has shut down roughly 350 illegal stores in recent months, aiming to protect consumers and licensed sellers. With 335 legal dispensaries now open and over 1,600 licenses issued, officials are nearly through a backlog of 2023 applications.

The governor’s budget proposes $73.1 million for cannabis regulation, including $5 million to bolster enforcement efforts and close remaining illegal operations.