Thank You Gov. Hochul
Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature
Governor Hochul and leaders in the New York State legislature enacted groundbreaking legislation that prioritizes previously cannabis-related convicted individuals and their close family members to receive consideration for new licenses in the emerging adult-use marketplace first.
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To:
Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature
From:
[Your Name]
Governor Hochul and Assembly Leader Peoples-Stokes
Thank you for prioritizing previously cannabis-related convicted individuals and their close family members to receive first consideration for new licenses in the emerging adult-use marketplace.
As you may be aware, a 2017 survey conducted by Marijuana Business Daily revealed that only 19% of the respondents identified as persons of color. Only 4.1% identified as Black or African American.
This racial disparity in marijuana-related arrests and convictions, as well as the overwhelming whiteness of the existing legal cannabis industry in states across the country, is something your plan could help combat. I encourage you to continue spearheading cannabis legislation rooted in racial and economic equity, as your leadership on this critical intersection of cannabis policy reform and economic justice serves as a model for other states.
It is our sincere hope that your efforts will reverberate around the nation and inspire similar justice-oriented reforms in licensing, zoning, lending, and other related economic criteria in this emerging industry moving forward.
Thank you very much for your time,