Have you already marked your calendar? A new compliance requirement for New York cannabis licensees is coming into effect very soon – on January 17th, 2025!
The New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) recently announced the launch of BioTrack NY Application Programming Interface (API), also referred to as NY STS Tracking System, a new solution that seeks to improve oversight and transparency across the cannabis supply chain.
Businesses are required to use a cannabis inventory tracking system that communicates with BioTrack's API. All New York cannabis licensees must inform which inventory tracking system vendor they've chosen by January 17th, 2025.
Yes, it's crunch time, but we've got you covered! Our guide will walk you through the step-by-step process and provide you with all the information you need for a smooth, stress-free transition.
Understanding the Compliance Deadline
January 17th, 2025 is the deadline for informing the OCM of your chosen inventory tracking system. As mentioned, the OCM will release information on the BioTrack implementation timeline as it becomes available. You don't have to be fully integrated to BioTrack track and trace by that date. In the meantime, and before the deadline, you must simply choose a cannabis inventory tracking system and report your decision.
Keep in mind that choosing a system for this integration and informing the OCM about your selected vendor is mandatory. If you fail to comply with this new requirement, there could be consequences.
Requirements for Integrating with BioTrack
Starting in 2025, the inventory tracking system you use for your cannabis operations must integrate with BioTrack, the go-to option for cannabis track-and-trace in New York. This integration is only possible if your chosen solution is compatible with the NY STS Tracking System.
Your inventory tracking software must be able to communicate with the BioTrack API to securely transfer data between your system and the state's track-and-trace platform. To find out if both are compatible, share the BioTrack API documentation with your chosen vendor.
This documentation outlines the BioTrack API details, technical specifications, and requirements for integration. With this information, your chosen vendor can confirm if their solution can connect with the state's track-and-trace platform.
Ideally, you should select a vendor that is familiar with the BioTrack integration process and can guide you through the steps to complete this essential requirement.
Choosing a BioTrack Integrated Vendor
The most important thing to do when choosing a vendor is to verify that their solution meets all of the BioTrack New York requirements for seamless integration, which you can do by following the steps outlined above.
You'll find many BioTrack vendor options, but make sure you select a company with a proven track record in New York and other states. If possible, evaluate the solution first and look for online reviews from previous users to determine if it's a good fit.
The ideal inventory tracking system for New York cannabis licensees should be user-friendly, be able to streamline compliance workflows, and provide real-time insights into cannabis operations.
For a safe bet, you should give Distru a try. Our all-in-one cannabis ERP system is capable of seamlessly integrating with BioTrack to ensure your data is always in sync across both platforms, helping you meet New York's strict tracking and reporting requirements.
Distru is equipped with innovative tools that can streamline your processes to help you save time, ensure accuracy when reporting, improve order fulfillment, and facilitate compliance, making it a comprehensive solution for cannabis businesses.
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Implementation Timeline and Steps
Do you want to ensure your business stays compliant by the January 17th, 2025, deadline? While full integration isn't yet required, you can start the process now to get ahead of the curve and avoid last-minute rush or potential complications.
Here's a suggested timeline:
- Learn as much as you can about the new BioTrack New York requirements (ASAP).
- Research different BioTrack vendor options and choose a suitable one (ASAP).
- Notify the OCM of your chosen cannabis inventory tracking system vendor (ASAP).
- Start the integration process with your vendor, if possible (find more information on the BioTrak API documentation).
- Test and validate the integration, if possible.
- Train your staff on how to use BioTrack system features and leverage this integration.
- Go live with BioTrack reporting (as soon as required by the OCM).
Consequences of Missing the Deadline
The integration between your inventory tracking system and BioTrack is a mandatory requirement under Section 78 of the Cannabis Law. If you don't choose a vendor and notify the OCM about your choice by January 17th, 2025, your cannabis business may face severe consequences.
Failing to meet this strict deadline can leave you non-compliant according to OCM rulings, exposing your business to potential fines and other penalties. Therefore, BioTrack compliance should be a top priority for all New York cannabis licensees from now on.
How Distru Can Help
The cannabis industry hasn't stopped evolving since its inception. Laws and regulations change all the time, making it difficult to run a compliant business.
At Distru, we know that New York cannabis licensees face unique challenges and we understand their most essential needs. That's why we've committed to building the best cannabis ERP system for our industry.
Our ERP solution seamlessly integrates with the two leading seed-to-sale tracking systems in the United States – Metrc and BioTrack.
Disru's BioTrack integration will help you keep all of your data automatically in sync with the state's mandated platform, eliminating the need for double manual entry, reducing errors, and ensuring accuracy.
If you're in a state that uses Metrc, such as California or Colorado, Distru offers the same level of integration but tailored to your licensing requirements. Our two-way sync capabilities ensure your data is updated in real time. Even if the seed-to-sale tracking platform is down, there will be no discrepancies. Your internal records will always match what you reported to the state.
Since Distru is equipped with many other features, you can also manage your inventory, process and fulfill orders, and collect manifests in one place. No matter the task you have to complete, you'll always be in compliance.
Besides supporting your compliance efforts, our ERP system will also provide you with many tools to optimize your operations, grow your business, and maximize your bottom line. Do you need to manage cannabis & non-cannabis inventory? Are you looking for an easy yet efficient way to oversee wholesale ordering and delivery routing? Distru covers every essential aspect of your cannabis supply chain.
Resources and Support
BioTrack, a comprehensive track-and-trace software for the cannabis industry, is now a must-have compliance tool for New York cannabis licensees. If you want to learn more about this system, the new integration requirements, or the upcoming compliance deadline, check out the following resources:
- New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM)'s website, specifically the seed-to-sale page
- Distru's BioTrack New York Compliance Guide
- Distru's Metrc Integration overview page
- BioTrack API documentation details
As the deadline approaches, the OCM is offering BioTrack API Training Webinars to help New York cannabis licensees prepare for this integration.
Both business owners and third-party vendors are welcome to attend these sessions. This is a valuable resource that can help you better understand the new requirements. For more information on training dates and topics, refer to the OCM's seed-to-sale page.
Do you have more questions about the BioTrack integration process? Are you interested in learning how Distru can help your business stay compliant? Get in touch with us today. Our team is ready to guide you!
Get Started Today
January 17th, 2025, is around the corner, so don't let this deadline sneak up on you. While there's still plenty of time, you can get started right away to ensure you choose a reputable vendor (like Distru), enjoy a smooth transition, and position your business for long-term success in New York's competitive yet promising cannabis market.
To learn more about our BioTrack and Metrc integrations or discover how our ERP software's capabilities can help you streamline compliance workflows, schedule a demo with Distru today!
Working together, we can keep your cannabis business compliant, efficient, and profitable!
