Officials warn of illegal THC drinks sold in NYC stores
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Officials warn of illegal THC drinks sold in NYC stores

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(Update: )
most populous city in the United States
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  • THC-infused drinks are being sold illegally in unlicensed stores across New York City.
  • Officials, including Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal, have raised concerns about the health risks to children.
  • There is a call for increased enforcement against illegal cannabis sales in the city.
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In New York City, unlicensed grocery stores and delis have been found selling THC-infused drinks, raising concerns among officials about the potential risks to unsuspecting shoppers and children. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal expressed outrage over the illegal sales, noting that these products are being sold alongside regular beverages in various locations across the city. Despite previous alerts to the state's Office of Cannabis Management regarding violations, the problem persists, with THC drinks reappearing on shelves after being removed. Experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics have warned that cannabis can pose serious health risks to children, while adults may experience a range of effects from euphoria to anxiety when consuming THC drinks. The legal framework in New York mandates that THC beverages can only be sold at licensed marijuana shops, yet enforcement has been lacking. The slow rollout of licensing and inadequate enforcement measures have contributed to the thriving illegal cannabis market in the state. Governor Britni Tantalo, president of the New York Cannabis Retail Association, has called for increased action from Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the NYPD to address the issue. The NYPD has previously collaborated with the Sheriff’s Office and state regulators to shut down illegal cannabis shops, but the ongoing problem highlights the challenges faced by state officials in regulating cannabis products effectively.