Gov. Kathy Hochul has unveiled new initiatives in the state budget to shut down illicit cannabis operations and protect the legal marketplace.

The plan provides the Office of Cannabis Management and local municipalities with new authority to take action against illicit storefronts and those who enable them.

Hochul said that State Police will work with local law enforcement to shut down and they will have the power to shut down these illegal shops immediately. This is a change from the status quo when they issue a fine and they appeal the decision and get to stay open when the process drags on.

They are going to crack down on landlords who allow these illicit businesses to operate in their spaces. 

The governor said enough is enough and this will protect communities and hard-working legal cannabis stores.