Albany, NY – The New York State Assembly today passed Assembly Bill A.5341-A, a bipartisan measure aimed at strengthening community protections by prohibiting cannabis retail storefronts from operating within 500 feet of schools or 200 feet of houses of worship located in mixed-use buildings. Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D–119), a proud co-sponsor of the bill, celebrated the measure’s passage as a commonsense step to preserve the character, safety, and sanctity of family-centered neighborhoods.

The legislation closes a loophole in existing cannabis law by ensuring that all entrances and exits of schools and houses of worship, especially those operating in shared-use buildings, are considered when determining minimum distances from cannabis retailers.

“Our schools and houses of worship are anchors of our communities. They are places where our children learn, where families gather, and where people find support, reflection, and safety,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “This legislation affirms our shared values and ensures that as New York’s cannabis market expands, it does so responsibly, without infringing on the spaces that mean the most to our families.”

Mixed-use buildings, commonly found in urban and suburban settings, may contain a blend of businesses, apartments, and community spaces such as classrooms or prayer halls. Prior law did not adequately account for these complex property types, creating inconsistencies in how distance buffers were enforced.

“This isn’t about stifling economic development, it’s about doing it the right way,” Buttenschon added. “We must continue to strike a balance between public health, business opportunity, and the moral responsibility we have to protect children and respect sacred spaces.”

The bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and has been delivered to the Senate for consideration. It will apply to all cannabis licenses issued on or after the date the law takes effect.