A new investigative feature from the Times Union is drawing attention to the significant NEW governmental harassment facing licensed hemp retailers across New York.
In the article, Joshua S. Bauchner, Chair of the Cannabis, Hemp & Psychedelics Practice Group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, discusses the constitutional concerns and financial devastation caused by New York State’s recent raids and aggressive tax assessments targeting compliant licensees – usually, small business owners.
Josh noted that regulators seize products without reviewing certificates of analysis and issue six-figure penalties based solely on product weight — a practice he says has pushed some business owners to the brink, “They’re taking people’s homes; their livelihood is gone.” Shockingly, a state representative admitted that if oregano is labeled as cannabis, it will be seized and taxed accordingly, despite patent First, Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteen Amendment concerns.
As questions mount over the state’s enforcement approach, Josh continues to advocate for accountability, due process, and a regulatory framework that supports — rather than destabilizes — legitimate hemp businesses.
🔗 Read the full Times Union article here.
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