Mount Vernon, State Crack Down On Illegal Cannabis Shops

MOUNT VERNON, NY — The city, with the help of state officials, is cracking down on illegal cannabis sales at retail outlets in town.

The City of Mount Vernon, in partnership with the Enforcement Division of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), has issued a "Notice of Violation and Order to Cease Unlicensed Activity" to several businesses in the city. These enforcement actions are part of Mount Vernon and OCM's efforts to uphold the integrity of the state's regulated cannabis industry.

In the joint operation, the Enforcement Division identified and cited unlicensed cannabis sales at several businesses. The issuance of "Violation Notices" and "Orders to Cease Unlicensed Activity" are intended to send a message that the City of Mount Vernon and OCM are committed to enforcing regulatory compliance and protecting consumers.

"I commend the swift and collaborative action taken by the City of Mount Vernon and the Office of Cannabis Management Enforcement Division in addressing unlicensed cannabis activity," Mayor Shawyn Patterson Howard said of the enforcement actions. "This proactive enforcement not only upholds the integrity of our community but also ensures the safety and compliance of the cannabis industry. Together, we send a clear message that unlicensed activities will not be tolerated, and we remain committed to fostering a legal, transparent, and responsible cannabis marketplace in Mount Vernon and beyond."

Businesses receiving Violation Notices are required to cease unlicensed activities immediately and take corrective actions to comply with state regulations. The OCM said it will continue working closely with local partners to monitor and enforce compliance within the cannabis industry.