Start Your Marijuana Business Now, Don’t Wait [VIDEO]

Marijuana was decriminalized in New York on April 2, 2021. However recreational  retail sales of the plant may not be available until 2022 or 2023.

On Thursday, Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes joined Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren in a community forum to give residents key information about how to prepare to profit in the New York’s Cannabis industry. The key message is, don’t wait, set up your business now!

Stokes says the intent of the legislation is to empower Black & Brown communities who have been negatively impacted by the criminalization of marijuana.

According to Stokes, the 126 pages of the new law are centered around ensuring 50 % equity for minorities, veterans and farmers. A Cannabis Management officer will be appointed to make sure that at least half of the licenses are awarded to the aforementioned groups.

In addition to the obvious roles of growing and distributing the plant for recreational use, the Majority Leader urges New Yorkers to create new businesses that cater to the new cannabis industry. For example, a graphic designer could create packaging and marketing for marijuana dispensaries and social consumption sites. Other services may include:

Legal Advisor

Accountant

Financial Institutions

Bakeries

Delivery Services

ETC.

On Friday, Mayor Warren and Dr. Lomax Campbell of the Office of Community Wealth joined the Wake-Up Club to provide resources for Rochester residents who want to take advantage of the emerging Marijuana industry.