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New York Considers Legalizing Cannabis-Infused Drinks in Liquor Stores

2/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

New York State lawmakers are considering a bill to let licensed liquor stores sell cannabis-infused drinks with 5 milligrams or less of THC.
Assemblyman John Zaccaro and Senator Jeremy Cooney say the measure would protect existing marijuana stores and generate revenue for social equity-owned dispensaries.
Osbert Orduna, a cannabis store operator, opposes the bill, citing the liquor industry’s past resistance to grocery stores selling wine and the ongoing illicit cannabis market.
Currently, there are 595 licensed cannabis dispensaries in New York.

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Story summary

New York State lawmakers are considering a bill to let licensed liquor stores sell cannabis-infused drinks with 5 milligrams or less of THC.
Assemblyman John Zaccaro and Senator Jeremy Cooney say the measure would protect existing marijuana stores and generate revenue for social equity-owned dispensaries.
Osbert Orduna, a cannabis store operator, opposes the bill, citing the liquor industry’s past resistance to grocery stores selling wine and the ongoing illicit cannabis market.
Currently, there are 595 licensed cannabis dispensaries in New York.