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First Black Woman Cannabis Owner Faces Legal Battle in Brooklyn

3/5/2026

25 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Leeann Mata, Brooklyn dispensary owner, became the first Black woman to open a legal cannabis dispensary in Brooklyn after partnering with Housing Works.
Housing Works, a nonprofit, sued Mata for $2.5 million in unpaid fees.
Mata accused Housing Works of exploiting her by delivering in her area while advising against delivery.
The dispute highlights challenges in New York's emerging cannabis industry where fair deals are difficult amid uncertainty.

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Story summary

Leeann Mata, Brooklyn dispensary owner, became the first Black woman to open a legal cannabis dispensary in Brooklyn after partnering with Housing Works.
Housing Works, a nonprofit, sued Mata for $2.5 million in unpaid fees.
Mata accused Housing Works of exploiting her by delivering in her area while advising against delivery.
The dispute highlights challenges in New York's emerging cannabis industry where fair deals are difficult amid uncertainty.