News Summary
The opening of 202 Cannabis Co. marks a significant milestone for Haverstraw as it becomes the first town in Rockland County to embrace a licensed cannabis retail establishment. Owned by local residents Gregory and Milka Pereira, the dispensary aims to provide a supportive environment for cannabis consumers. Offering a wide range of products and emphasizing community wellness, the grand opening event is expected to bring together locals and officials alike.
Haverstraw, New York Welcomes First Licensed Cannabis Dispensary
202 Cannabis Co. will officially open its doors on May 7, 2025, at 81 West Ramapo Road (Route 202) in Haverstraw, New York. This marks a significant milestone as Haverstraw becomes the first town in Rockland County to welcome a licensed cannabis retail establishment.
The dispensary is owned and operated by local residents Gregory and Milka Pereira, a husband-and-wife team who have committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for cannabis consumers. The grand opening ceremony is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on the opening day and will include a ribbon-cutting event attended by Haverstraw Town Supervisor Howard Phillips and various local residents, further emphasizing the community aspect of this venture.
Product Offerings and Customer Experience
202 Cannabis Co. aims to cater to a diverse clientele with its curated selection of cannabis products that includes flower, edibles, vape cartridges, oils, and specialty vegan and kosher items. The dispensary will employ expert budtenders trained to assist customers, whether they are seasoned cannabis users or newcomers, in finding the products that suit their needs.
Gregory Pereira, who has a professional background as a substance abuse counselor, emphasizes that the dispensary’s mission extends beyond merely selling cannabis. He aims to aid those struggling with addiction, framing the establishment as a support system for community healing and recovery.
Local Context and Market Dynamics
Haverstraw holds a unique position in Rockland County, as it is the only municipality in the area that opted to allow cannabis retailing following decisions made in late 2021. Other towns, including Clarkstown, Stony Point, Orangetown, and Ramapo, opted out of cannabis retailing altogether. However, local villages such as Nyack, Piermont, and Chestnut Ridge have embraced the opportunity to allow cannabis dispensaries.
202 Cannabis Co. will be part of New York State’s Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary Program, which facilitates the legal selling of cannabis through licensed outlets. Recently, there has been a surge in cannabis dispensaries across the state, including notable establishments like Treehouse Cannabis in Nyack, the first adult-use recreational dispensary to open in 2024.
Economic Impact and Sales Tax Revenue
The introduction of a licensed dispensary in Haverstraw will also have economic implications for the local community. New York State’s sales tax on cannabis is set at 9%, with 4% of that revenue directed to municipalities hosting dispensaries, subsequently benefiting local budgets.
Challenges Facing the Cannabis Market
Despite these advances, New York State continues to grapple with various challenges in the cannabis market. Illegal cannabis sales and unlicensed distributors remain a concern, undermining the regulated market. Additionally, the state previously faced a significant backlog of unsold cannabis products caused by regulatory delays and a limited number of retail outlets, which have hindered the smooth rollout of licensed cannabis establishments.
In summary, the opening of 202 Cannabis Co. represents a pivotal development for both Haverstraw and the broader Rockland County community. With an innovative product offering and a commitment to responsible retailing, the dispensary aims to bridge the gap in access to legal cannabis while contributing to community welfare and economic growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Hudson Valley Cannabis News – RCBizJournal
- Haverstraw’s First Cannabis Dispensary – LoHud
- Rockland’s Second Legal Cannabis Retailer – RCBizJournal
- Google Search: cannabis dispensaries New York
- Encyclopedia Britannica: cannabis
- Haverstraw Cannabis Store – Rockland News
