Mayor Adams Plans to Reopen Illegal Smoke Shops as Legal Businesses

By Y.M. Lowy

Since the Operation Padlock to Protect program began last May, nearly 1,400 illegal cannabis shops have been shut down, and over $95 million worth of illegal products have been seized.

As the operation's first anniversary approaches, Mayor Adams has announced plans to reopen these empty storefronts as legitimate businesses.

Landlords can choose to turn their properties into licensed cannabis stores or repurpose them for other small businesses, like bakeries, retail shops, or barber shops.