Joshua S. Bauchner, Chair of the Cannabis, Hemp, and Psychedelics Practice Group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, was highlighted in the Forbes article, “New York Judge Bans Warrantless Searches of Hemp Businesses,” for his role in securing a major legal victory for hemp retailers. A New York judge ruled that the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and NYC Sheriff’s Office violated the Fourth Amendment by conducting warrantless raids on licensed hemp stores.
The decision, which blocks aggressive enforcement actions, underscores concerns over regulatory overreach. Bauchner emphasized that regulatory crackdowns unfairly targeted licensed hemp businesses alongside illicit cannabis operations. The court’s ruling now limits inspections to two unarmed inspectors unless a documented security concern exists, providing much-needed protection to compliant businesses. With millions of dollars in seized products and ongoing uncertainty in New York’s cannabis market, the case highlights the urgent need for clearer regulations to ensure fair enforcement and industry stability.
Read the full Forbes article here.
You can reach Joshua Bauchner at 646-369-0250 or via email at jbauchner@mblawfirm.com.