New NYC Law Could Fine Commercial Landlords Who are Renting to Illegal Smoke Retailers

A law passed by the City Council in June allows City government agencies to fine commercial landlords for knowingly leasing space to unlicensed smoke shops. Local Law 107 provides that after the first time an unlicensed cannabis or tobacco product seller is found to be operating in leased commercial premises, any relevant city agency could issue a warning to the landlord. If an unlicensed seller is later found to be operating in the same commercial premises, the owner would be liable for civil penalties of $5,000 for the first violation and $10,000 for subsequent lawbreaking. Learn more.