Oneida County Executive Introduces Two New Laws on Cannabis and Tobacco

In a bold move to address public health concerns, Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. has introduced two new local laws aimed at cracking down on the unlicensed sale of cannabis and regulating the retail of tobacco and nicotine smoking paraphernalia. These laws are part of a broader effort to improve public health and safety in the county. The first law targets unlicensed cannabis shops, while the second focuses on the regulation of smoking paraphernalia retailers.

The first of the two new laws empowers the Oneida County Health Department to take decisive action against unlicensed cannabis retailers. This law authorizes the department to conduct regulatory inspections, issue violation notices, impose fines, and seize illicit cannabis products. The fines for the unlawful sale of cannabis are substantial, starting at $2,500 per day for a first violation and escalating to $10,000 per day for subsequent violations, with a maximum penalty of $25,000 per unique instance of violation.

This law is a response to the growing number of illegal cannabis shops operating in New York State, estimated to be over 1,000. These unregulated shops pose significant risks to public health and safety, as they do not adhere to the required standards and do not pay the necessary taxes and fees. By shutting down these illegal operations, the county aims to protect its residents and ensure that only licensed and regulated cannabis businesses operate within its borders.

The introduction of this law is a significant step towards eliminating the black market for cannabis in Oneida County. It reflects the county’s commitment to enforcing the law and maintaining high standards for public health and safety.

Regulating Tobacco and Nicotine Paraphernalia

The second law, known as the Smoking Paraphernalia Retail Control Act, establishes a comprehensive system for licensing and inspecting retailers of tobacco and nicotine smoking paraphernalia. This includes items such as pipes, waterpipes, hookahs, rolling papers, electronic cigarettes, and other devices designed for the inhalation of tobacco or nicotine.

Retailers are required to obtain a license from the Oneida County Health Department, with a fee of $2,500 that must be renewed every two years. The law also imposes strict location requirements, mandating that retailers be at least 1,000 feet away from schools, parks, daycares, and playgrounds, and more than a quarter mile from any other smoking paraphernalia retailer. These measures are designed to limit the accessibility of tobacco and nicotine products to minors and reduce the overall prevalence of smoking in the community.

The Health Department will conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the law. Violations can result in the seizure of paraphernalia, fines, and orders to cease operations. This proactive approach aims to create a safer environment for residents and reduce the health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use.

Public Health and Safety

The introduction of these two laws underscores Oneida County’s commitment to public health and safety. By targeting unlicensed cannabis shops and regulating the sale of smoking paraphernalia, the county aims to reduce the availability of harmful substances and protect its residents, particularly young people, from the dangers of tobacco and cannabis use.

County Executive Picente emphasized the importance of these measures in his State of the County Address, highlighting the need to take control of the situation and improve public health for all. The laws are expected to have a significant impact on reducing illegal cannabis sales and ensuring that tobacco and nicotine products are sold responsibly.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to promote health and well-being in Oneida County. By addressing the root causes of substance abuse and implementing strict regulations, the county is taking a proactive stance in safeguarding the health of its residents.