The state Department of Health is now accepting applications from businesses seeking to operate as cannabinoid hemp processors, retailers or distributors.
In October, the Health Department filed proposed regulations to regulate cannabinoid hemp products in New York state. Cannabinoid hemp products include many CBD products currently available for purchase, including tinctures, vaporizations, oils, topicals, pills, capsules and food or beverages.
“Opening the application process for businesses looking to be part of the growing hemp industry in New York state is a critical step in the process of expanding our economy and building back better. Licensing gives processors, distributors and retailers the ability to help ensure the hemp industry’s long-term viability,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “This exciting opportunity to be a part of the state’s regulated cannabinoid hemp program is great news for farmers and consumers.”
The program is licensing cannabinoid hemp processors, distributors and retailers and setting quality control standards that all cannabinoid hemp products must meet including manufacturing, packaging and labeling and laboratory testing requirements. Officials aid it will help organize and legitimize the growing cannabinoid hemp industry in New York state while simultaneously protecting consumers from sub-standard and potentially dangerous products.
In 2015, the state launched the Industrial Hemp Agricultural Research Pilot Program, supporting farmers and further boosting economic development in upstate New York. Since then, New York’s hemp program has expanded significantly, making New York one of the leading hemp producing states in the country, officials said.
Hemp is a sustainable, carbon-sequestering crop that is capable of being transformed into hundreds of products including textiles, furniture, fuel, food, construction materials and personal care items.