The Lake George region’s first licensed adult-use cannabis dispensary is urging both residents and visitors to learn New York’s cannabis laws and adopt responsible habits as legal marijuana becomes an increasingly visible part of the region’s tourism economy.
Silver Therapeutics, which operates Silver Cannabis Company in Queensbury, recently released a public guide aimed at correcting common misconceptions about legal cannabis while emphasizing safety, education and compliance with state regulations.
Brendan McKee, the company’s co-founder and chief operating officer, said many customers remain uncertain about what is legal under New York’s cannabis laws, particularly visitors arriving from states with different regulations.
“Our goal is to help them make informed decisions and feel comfortable throughout the process,” McKee said, adding that education is central to the dispensary’s mission.
Among the most common misunderstandings, McKee said, is the assumption that any business selling cannabis is operating legally. He noted that licensed dispensaries display an official New York Office of Cannabis Management verification sticker with a QR code that customers can scan to confirm the business is licensed. Licensed retailers also must verify customers are at least 21 years old and sell products that have undergone state-required testing and labeling.
The guide also encourages consumers to read product labels carefully, ask questions before making a purchase and understand differences in potency and serving sizes, particularly for edible products, whose effects can take longer to appear than smoking or vaping cannabis. McKee advises first-time consumers to “start low and go slow” to avoid an unpleasant experience.
The dispensary also reminds customers that purchasing cannabis legally does not mean it can be consumed anywhere. Under New York law, cannabis generally may be used only in places where tobacco smoking is permitted. It is prohibited in restaurants, bars, schools, playgrounds, public transportation and many other public places, while hotels, campgrounds and other private property owners may establish their own restrictions.
Another key message is that driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal. The company urges customers to arrange transportation before consuming cannabis and to store products securely and out of the reach of children.
McKee said the dispensary hopes responsible use and consumer education will help legal cannabis become a positive part of Lake George’s tourism industry while respecting the community.
“Lake George has long been known for hospitality,” he wrote. “As legal cannabis becomes part of New York’s tourism landscape, we have an opportunity to approach it in the same way: with clear information, common sense, and respect for the surrounding community.”
