[PRESS RELEASE] – ALBANY, N.Y., April 28, 2026 – The Cannabis Association for Unified Retail Development (CAURD Inc.) convened equity cannabis operators, advocates and stakeholders on April 28 at the New York State Capitol for its “We Did Our Part” Lobby Day, presenting a focused policy roadmap aimed at stabilizing and strengthening the businesses that built New York’s legal cannabis market.
Five years after the passage of the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA), New York’s legal cannabis industry has generated more than $3.3 billion in retail sales. Equity operators, particularly justice-impacted entrepreneurs who entered the market in its earliest stages, played a central role in building that foundation. However, many now face mounting financial and operational challenges that threaten long-term viability.
“I am proud of what we accomplished with the MRTA and the intentionality that brought more equity entrepreneurs into this industry than anywhere else in the country,” said Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, original sponsor of the MRTA. “We built the foundation. Now it’s time to ensure it lasts. Equity must be measured by long-term success, and the next phase must ensure these businesses can survive and succeed.”
Lobby Day brought stakeholders together for a press conference and a full day of meetings with the Executive Chamber, the Legislature, and the Office of Cannabis Management, centered on three priority areas requiring coordinated government action:
- Advancing Financing Solutions and Market Protections: CAURD is calling for equitable financing mechanisms that allow operators to stabilize and grow, including principal relief and restructuring of DASNY loans, stronger oversight of ownership and management agreements, and safeguards that ensure equity operators can remain competitive and independent.
- Directing Tax Revenue Back Into Equity Operators: The organization is urging policymakers to establish dedicated funding streams that reinvest cannabis tax revenue directly into equity businesses, including near-term stabilization resources and transparent, multiyear reinvestment strategies.
- Strengthening the Retail Ecosystem: CAURD is pushing for targeted regulatory improvements that address day-to-day operational challenges, including modernized payment systems, improved supply chain frameworks and policies that support long-term business viability.
“We showed up and delivered when New York needed us to build this market,” said Chris Kuilan, CAURD board member and co-owner of Stoops NYC. “I followed the rules, opened my doors, and built something real in my community. But equity doesn’t stop at getting a license or opening a store; it’s about having the support to survive, compete and grow. With the right tools and a real seat at the table, we can help shape a market that works for everyone.”
In tandem with its advocacy efforts, CAURD also announced it has retained cannabis law and criminal justice attorney Joseph A. Bondy as legal counsel, strengthening its ability to pursue both policy solutions and legal protections for its members.
“New York’s equity cannabis operators answered the state’s call,” Bondy said. “They built this market and created opportunity where none existed. They should not now be left exposed to instability and uncertainty. CAURD is committed to securing the protections and support these businesses need – through engagement where possible, and through legal action when necessary.”
The April 28 Lobby Day began with a press conference on the Capitol’s Million Dollar Staircase, followed by legislative meetings and advocacy programming throughout the day.
