Grounded aims to be the best cannabis dispensary in New York, but we’re also your neighbors, educators, and advocates for safe cannabis consumption. As the Empire State continues to embrace the cannabis legalization movement, our dispensary’s mission is to guide our community with clarity and care.
Recent data from the New York State Department of Health shows a subtle increase in cannabis use among adults over the past three months, with approximately 18% reporting usage. As cannabis consumption becomes more popular, it’s essential to understand and follow New York’s consumption laws to ensure both personal and public safety.
This is your guide to learn how to promote and partake in safe consumption in the Hudson Valley community.
Legal Cannabis in New York: Know the Rules
As of 2021, New York State’s Marihuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA) legalized adult-use cannabis for individuals 21 and older.
Under New York legalization, cannabis users can:
- Possess up to three ounces of cannabis and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis outside their homes.
- Possess and store up to five pounds of cannabis at home, with proper cannabis storage and safety in place.
MRTA & the Office of Cannabis Management
New York’s MRTA program established the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to oversee the regulation of adult-use, medical, and hemp cannabis programs within the state. This regulatory framework ensures that all cannabis products and retailers comply with safety standards. The OCM ensures that cannabis businesses operate lawfully while following state guidelines to promote safer consumption.
Where Can You Consume Cannabis in New York?
No matter where you are in New York, adults may smoke or vape cannabis wherever tobacco smoking is permitted under the smoke-free air laws.
However, there are some notable prohibited areas, including:
- Motor vehicles, even if parked
- Restaurants and bars
- Parks or beaches
- Public event spaces and workplaces
- Inside cannabis dispensaries
Similar to laws regulating tobacco or alcohol consumption, violations of these regulations can result in civil summonses and fines.
Legal Cannabis Dispensaries vs. Non-Regulated Smoke Shops
The rise of unlicensed smoke shops poses significant risks to consumers in New York. These establishments often fail to adhere to safety protocols and product testing, resulting in unregulated products being sold on smoke shop shelves.
Unregulated or untested cannabis products greatly impact quality control and safety in the community. Products with incorrect potency levels or those containing harmful substances or toxins can pose long-term concerns for consumers.
Despite all the smoke shops and dispensaries you may see in your city, there are a few helpful signs to look for that prove you’re purchasing from a legal dispensary:
- Look for the New York State Licensed Cannabis Dispensary decal near the entrance.
- Verify the dispensary’s license through the OCM’s official website.
- Ensure each product has clear labeling—check for signs of the Certificate of Analysis, which indicates that a third-party laboratory has tested the product.
- THC/CBD content, batch numbers, and expiration dates should also be present on regulated cannabis products.
Supporting and shopping at licensed dispensaries not only guarantees product safety but also contributes to the local economy and the broader goal of responsible cannabis consumption.
The Beauty of Exploring Cannabis in the Hudson Valley
The unique terroir of the Hudson Valley resembles the region’s climate, soil, and topography. Each of these environmental elements creates an ideal setting for high-quality cannabis cultivation. Hudson Valley’s rich agricultural heritage shines through in our cannabis products, delivering distinct flavors and effects reminiscent of this region’s renowned wines.
This niche connoisseurship allows consumers to explore and experience the environmental beauty of the Hudson Valley within their bud. Purchasing sungrown or locally cultivated cannabis flower in the Hudson Valley gives you a unique profile grown from the distinctive terroir of this area (something you can’t get anywhere else).
Additionally, the regulatory process of MRTA lets individual towns and cities in New York decide whether to host legal cannabis retailers. More than half of the areas in the Hudson Valley have opted for cannabis sale, reflecting the community’s progressive stance on the plant and its potential economic benefits.
Grounded: Your Trusted Cannabis Dispensary in Hudson Valley
At Grounded, we’re proud to be part of Hudson Valley’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and thriving community. Our NY dispensary offers a curated selection of cannabis products, ranging from locally sourced flower to delicious edibles. Every one of our products are thoroughly tested with quality and safety in mind.
If you’re a local cannabis toker or a visitor exploring the scenic trails and historic sites in the Hudson Valley, we invite you to visit our New York dispensary and discover how cannabis can enhance your experiences!
Our helpful and knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and guide you toward a product that suits your preferences and needs. Join us in embracing a responsible cannabis community in the Hudson Valley. Explore our dispensary menu to start shopping for your next product! Read our Blog page for more education and consumption tips.
The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
