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.