Latino Cannabis Association Launches In Washington Heights

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, NY — The Latino Cannabis Association is launching in Washington Heights.

The new trade, not-for-profit organization to support Latino-licensees in the emerging cannabis industry across New York will have its first meeting on Tuesday at the Wahizza pizzeria at 4455 Broadway, between West 190th and 192nd streets.

The first meeting will run from 7 to 9 p.m.

Specifically, the new association will look to secure representation, social and economic equity for Latinos in the cannabis industry.

So far, it is comprised of entrepreneurs within the Latino community and legacy operators, "who are committed to helping guide the cannabis business policy to construct a health market, bridge the gaps between vision, regulation and realities, and promote sustainability and ways in which the regulated cannabis industry can bring real economic development to local communities," reads a news release from the Latino Cannabis Association.

"The Latino community has been disproportionately impacted by the policies of prohibition, and now is our time to participate in the social and economic equity benefits of this new industry," Jeffrey Garcia, the President of the Latino Cannabis Association, said in a news release.

Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed legislation in April 2021 making weed legal in New York, but many of the changes didn't immediately go into effect. Adults who are 21 and up can smoke or otherwise consume cannabis and possess up to 3 ounces and businesses can apply for licenses to sell recreational marijuana, grow it or set up "consumption lounges."

Selling marijuana without a state license is still illegal and licenses for legal dispensaries to sell weed won't be granted overnight. Experts say that the licenses will take at least nine months to go through — if not longer.

Melissa Guzman and other cannabis industry leaders will be in attendance for Tuesday's first meeting.

Remarks will be given in English and Spanish.