ALBANY, N.Y. — The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) announced Tuesday Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill to help modernize the state’s medical cannabis program.

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According to OCM, NY State Senate Bill 2025-S3294A, marks one of the most significant updates to the state’s medical cannabis program since it launched in 2016.

“This legislation reflects New York’s ongoing commitment to compassion, science, access, and equity,” said Felicia A.B. Reid, Acting Executive Director, New York State Office of Cannabis Management. “I especially want to thank Dr. Nakesha Abel and her team’s incredible guidance in developing these programmatic parameters.”

Key Provisions

Expanded Patient Access and Program Participation:

• Reciprocity: Authorizes medical cannabis patients from other states to purchase from New York medical cannabis dispensaries. 
• Simplified Access: Streamlines the patient certification process and eases provider requirements to reduce participation barriers statewide.
• Removes Practical Burden: Extends patient certifications from one to two years.

Clear and Consistent Patient Rights:

• Dispensing Limits: Creates flexibility with possession limits for certified patients and designated caregivers.
• Home Cultivation: Permits certified patients aged 18 and older to cultivate cannabis at home for personal medical use.
• These provisions collectively strengthen patient autonomy, safeguard program integrity, and enhance clarity for both patients and caregivers. 

The provisions go into effect after 90 days; however, it may be longer if regulations are required to implement the bill.

“Patients deserve a medical cannabis program that truly supports their care, and these updates move us closer to that goal,” said Dr. June Chine, Chief Medical Officer, New York State Office of Cannabis Management. “By expanding access and modernizing the system, we are ensuring that treatment decisions are guided by evidence, clinical expertise, and the lived experiences of the people we serve”

For more information or to find a registered medical dispensary, visit OCM’s website.