The Empire State Green Standard Alliance to Host First-Ever Cannabis Advocacy Booth at The Great New York State Fair
June 25, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Empire State Green Standard Alliance to Host First-Ever Cannabis Advocacy Booth at The Great New York State Fair
SYRACUSE, NY — The Empire State Green Standard Alliance (GSA) announced today that it will host the first cannabis advocacy booth in the history of The Great New York State Fair.
Located in the Horticulture Building, the booth will provide fairgoers with information about cannabis consumer safety, product testing, labeling standards, responsible consumption, and the benefits of purchasing from New York's regulated cannabis marketplace.
"The legalization of cannabis created an entirely new industry in New York, but consumers still have questions about product safety, labeling, testing, and where to purchase legal products," said Herb Barbot, Chair of GSA. "The State Fair provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers and ensure consumers have access to accurate information."
GSA is also inviting licensed cultivators, processors, brands, dispensaries, and ancillary businesses from across New York State to participate by providing educational materials, promotional items, and consumer giveaways for distribution throughout the Fair.
"This is an opportunity for the legal cannabis industry to come together and showcase its commitment to consumer education, public safety, and a thriving regulated marketplace," Barbot said. "We welcome legal cannabis companies from every corner of New York to join us in this historic effort."
The Great New York State Fair attracts nearly one million visitors annually, making it one of the largest public events in New York State.
The Empire State Green Standard Alliance is led by a distinguished board advancing consumer protection, education, and fair policy in New York’s cannabis market. Herb Barbot serves as Board Chair, drawing on his experience as the inaugural Director of Operations at the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. Joseph Levey, a Founding Partner at Helbraun Levey, oversees licensing and regulatory matters. Mark Wagner, Counsel at The West Firm, provides corporate and regulatory legal expertise. Linda Baldwin, former General Counsel to the New York State Office of Cannabis Management, brings deep institutional knowledge of cannabis regulation, enforcement, and consumer protection frameworks. And Tiffany Walters, CEO of New York State Cannabis Connect, contributes deep insight into workforce development, equity and community engagement. Joe Rossi serves as Chief Strategist, bringing more than 18 years of experience in New York State government relations.
Download the press release here
Media Contact:
Joe Rossi
Chief Strategist
315.956.9502
Email: joe.rossi@modernadvocacyllc.com
Website: www.greenstandardalliance.org