After a legal delay, the state Cannabis Control Board approved a new batch of licenses for dispensaries – including five in the Mid-Hudson Region.

"We look forward to the businesses you will build, the economy you will develop, the supply chain you will strengthen, and communities you invest in," said one board member.

The Office of Cannabis Control says even though new licenses were just issued, the location of the new shops have not yet been finalized.

It's still unclear exactly when the first shop might open in the Mid-Hudson. It could be a few months, as several cities and towns are working out zoning regulations which would dictate where dispensaries can and can't be.

The state has imposed some rules municipalities must consider in their zoning plans. For example, a dispensary can't set up shop within 500 feet of a school or 200 feet from any house of worship.

Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Newburgh and Beacon are among those whose elected leaders have opted in to allow dispensaries. Middletown and the Town of Wawarsing opted out.