The New York State Cannabis Control Board is contemplating a change to the current regulations that mandate a 1,000-foot distance between legal marijuana stores. This proposed adjustment, termed the "public convenience and advantage waiver," has met with significant opposition in New York City from residents and business owners alike.

The existing rules are designed to prevent an overconcentration of marijuana dispensaries in one area, which could lead to market oversaturation and negatively affect local communities. Critics, however, argue that the state’s implementation of its legal cannabis program has been problematic, allowing numerous illegal shops to operate across the city and state. They contend that loosening the buffer zone requirements is necessary to enable more legal shops to open and compete effectively.

Industry insiders suggest that the proposal’s true aim is to satisfy those applicants still awaiting approval for their dispensaries. Opponents, though, fear that relaxing the buffer requirements would lead to an excessive number of marijuana shops in certain neighborhoods, potentially diminishing profits for existing businesses and forcing them to cut wages.

Osbert Orduna, interviewed by CBS News, runs "Cannabis Place" which a legal marijuana store in Queens. He represents several trade organizations, including one for disabled veterans, and strongly opposes the proposal. He argues that an oversaturation of marijuana shops would not serve the public interest and could negatively affect local communities.

The Cannabis Control Board plans to gather public feedback and conduct a study on the proposal before making a final decision. This issue is slated for discussion at the board's meeting in August.

More more information, check out the original article: 
https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/new-york-legal-pot-shop-buffer-rule/