New York Senate Bill S07596

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/23/25
• Refer: 4/23/25

Caption

Prohibits adult-use dispensing facilities and tobacco businesses from opening until one hour after the latest beginning of a school day of any school located within one mile of the facility or business.

Impact

The proposed amendments could significantly affect the operational protocols for businesses selling cannabis and tobacco. By restricting opening hours, the bill seeks to enhance community safety and provide a protective buffer between minors and these substances during critical school hours. This legislation would specifically apply to areas surrounding educational institutions, thereby imposing a localized operational standard that businesses must comply with.

Summary

Bill S07596 aims to amend existing cannabis and public health laws to regulate the operating hours of adult-use dispensing facilities and tobacco businesses. Under this bill, such establishments are prohibited from opening until one hour after the latest start time of any school day for schools located within a mile of their location. The intention is to mitigate potential exposure of minors to substances such as cannabis and tobacco, especially during school operational hours.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face opposition from business owners and advocates who argue that such restrictions could negatively impact their revenue and operational flexibility. Stakeholders may contend that the mandated hours fail to consider the complexities of business operations and community dynamics. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding the effectiveness of such measures in actually safeguarding minors, as opponents could argue that the focus should instead be on comprehensive education and prevention strategies rather than regulatory barriers.