New York Supreme Court Judge Grants Injunction to Protect Over 150 Licensed Cannabis Dispensaries
A coalition of cannabis operators, including ConBud, The Cannabis Place, Summit Canna, Hush, High Fade, Housing Works Cannabis Co., and Common Courtesy Dispensary, have won a major victory in their lawsuit against the state’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).
The injunction, signed by Judge Savona, blocks the OCM from enforcing its new interpretation of distance requirements from schools and requires the agency to return to its previous guidance, which had been vetted with community input. This decision offers a temporary reprieve for businesses as the case continues.
“This preliminary injunction is a critical safeguard for more than 150 compliant, tax-paying dispensaries across New York,” said Jorge Luis Vasquez Jr., attorney for the petitioners. “The Court has ensured stability while the broader issues are litigated.”
The dispute began in July when the OCM changed its measurement of distance from schools from entrance-to-entrance to property line-to-property line. This sudden reinterpretation left 152 dispensaries out of compliance, with nearly 90% of them being owned by justice-involved individuals, many of whom are Black and Latino.
“Disrupting operations at this scale not only harms law-abiding businesses but also drives consumers back to the illicit market, where untested products put public health at risk,” said Matthew Bernardo, president of Housing Works, Inc.
The ruling offers a unique opportunity for Governor Hochul to lead a legislative solution and resolve the matter in an equitable manner, according to Osbert Orduna, CEO of The Cannabis Place.
While the injunction does not end the lawsuit, it does provide protection for operators who have invested heavily in their businesses. The case will continue as lawmakers face pressure to find a permanent solution. In the meantime, over 150 dispensaries can continue serving customers without disruption.
And speaking of New York cannabis, there’s still time to sign up for the High Times Cannabis Cup: People’s Choice Edition 2025. All products must be licensed by the OCM and fully compliant with state rules. Judging begins October 21. Unlike the OCM, we make sure to follow through on our promises. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your products and be a part of the thriving legal cannabis industry in New York.
