AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe is taking applications for Tribal Cannabis Retail Licenses beginning on Monday, September 13, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. The retail license applications are available to pick up during normal business hours at the SRMT Compliance Office located at 28 Okwarine Road in Akwesasne.
This is the latest step by the Tribe to establish a legal cannabis industry under the Tribe’s jurisdiction, which was approved by community referendum in December 2019. Those who complete and return the retail license applications can expect to hear back on their application’s status within two weeks.
“Unlike other tribal territories, the Tribe’s Adult Use Cannabis Ordinance provides eligible tribal members with the opportunity to help develop this new industry for the benefit of the community,” said Tribal Chief Michael Conners. Chief Conners added, “Tribal licensing builds upon our business community’s history of keeping revenue in Akwesasne to support community programs and services.”
Licensing fees collected from regulated businesses help keep community members employed and fund essential services -- from education to our elders. It will support community programs and tribal services, such as the Tribe’s Fuel Oil Burner Service Cleaning Program and Heating Equipment Repair Replacement Program that assists all tribal members and had a significant budget reduction due to funding shortfalls to the Tribal General Fund.
“We continue to take this time to thank community members for contributing to the regulation’s development, as well as for individual’s patience in obtaining a retail license under tribal law,” said Tribal Chief Ron LaFrance. Chief LaFrance noted, “Tribally licensed cannabis retailers will have an opportunity to make their products available in advance of State licensed businesses.”
New York State only legalized personal use and possession of adult use cannabis on March 31, 2021. It appointed members to its Cannabis Control Board this week however, it is not expected to issue retail licenses for another 18 months to sell cannabis.
“Our community’s cannabis ordinance gives tribally licensed businesses a jump start, but more importantly, it helps certify that the products being made available for sale have been tested and proven safe for consumers. Ensuring product safety is part of the Tribe’s effort to encourage Tribal members to participate in this new industry that will benefit the entire community,” shared Tribal Chief Beverly Cook.
The retail license applications are for individuals who submitted an Adult Use Cannabis Business Pre-Clearance Form. Those interested, may still complete and return the pre-clearance form to the Compliance Department before receiving the retail application.
The Tribe’s Adult Use Cannabis Ordinance and regulations are available to download and view from the Tribe’s website at www.srmt-nsn.gov. A copy can also be requested from the Tribal Clerks Office or Legal Department by calling (518) 358-2272, as well as from the Compliance Department.
For more information, please call the SRMT Compliance Department at (518) 358-2273.
#####
The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council is the duly elected and federally recognized government of the Saint Regis Mohawk People.