A newly proposed bill in New York would allow licensed off-premises alcohol retailers to obtain a permit to sell low-potency cannabis beverages.
According to the bill, introduced by State Senator Jeremy Cooney, drinks included in the proposed rules could contain no more than 5mg of THC and would need to be manufactured by New York state adult-use licensees.
Cooney explained that the bill is being introduced in response to growing consumer demand for low-dose, beverage-based cannabis products.
"Allowing existing off-premises alcohol retailers to sell low potency cannabis beverages through a carefully structured permit system will expand legal access to regulated products, reduce illicit market activity, and provide a clear, enforceable pathway for responsible retail sales," he wrote in a justification memo. "By limiting eligibility to established licensees and requiring separate storage, tracking, and enforcement coordination, the bill preserves public health and safety while ensuring strong regulatory oversight."
He said the measure also supports small businesses and social and economic equity applicants by dedicating a portion of revenues to loans, grants, technical assistance, and enforcement against illicit operators. Additionally, revenue sharing with municipalities recognizes the local role in hosting and regulating these sales.
