Industry News

Understanding the New York BioTrack API Timeline: What You Need to Know

July 1, 2024
8
 Min Read
Nicole Ziegler
Chief of Staff

Navigating regulatory requirements can be challenging, especially when dealing with new and evolving legislation. At Canix, we understand the concerns and confusion surrounding the upcoming BioTrack API integration for New York operators. We aim to provide clear and accurate information to help you stay compliant and make informed decisions.

Clarifying the 60-Day Deadline

One of the sources of confusion for New York operators is the 60-day deadline related to the BioTrack API release.

According to the Electronic Inventory Tracking System FAQs provided by the New York Cannabis Control Board, the 60-day deadline is for operators to opt-in to a seed-to-sale inventory tracking system, not necessarily to be fully integrated with the API within that timeframe.

What Does This Mean for Operators?

  1. Opt-In vs. Integration: The requirement is for operators to choose a seed-to-sale tracking system within 60 days of the API release. Full integration with the API is not mandated within this period. This is based on Canix’s dialogues with OCM and NY Cannabis’ premier compliance consultants.
  2. Ambiguity in Language: The current language in the legislation is ambiguous, potentially leading to confusion among operators. It's crucial to understand that the deadline is about selecting a provider, not completing the integration.

Canix's Commitment to Clear Communication

At Canix, we are committed to ensuring that our clients are well-informed and prepared for these regulatory changes. Here’s how we are addressing the situation:

  1. Advocating Through All Channels: We are actively advocating to the OCM through all possible channels to clarify the language and ensure that operators are not misled by the current wording.
  2. Integration Readiness: While the 60-day deadline is for selecting an Electronic Inventory Tracking System provider, we are already preparing our product and engineering teams to support seamless integration with the BioTrack API. We aim to be the best integration partner, providing robust and efficient solutions for your inventory tracking needs. Operators currently on Canix will have a streamlined integration experience to avoid training on an entirely different system. They will benefit from our extensive experience building against previous versions of BioTrack, ensuring a smooth transition once the API is available.

Anticipating the New API

Since BioTrack has not yet released the API for New York, we can anticipate facets of its structure based on the BioTrack Florida API.

However, it is important to note that the New York API and UI will differ from any previous versions due to updates such as those detailed in the Official Tag Guidelines. This update indicates changes in how tags are managed, which will impact the new API’s functionality and integration requirements.

Avoiding Misleading Information

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding BioTrack's API release date is causing significant challenges for NY operators. The API framework was announced on 8/31/23, but an update in April 2024 regarding tags indicates that the API will be different from what was initially promised.

The release date has been shrouded in rumors and misleading information, making it difficult to get a real timeline for when, or if, the API will be available. This delay is causing operators to postpone updating their reporting systems, which is detrimental to maintaining compliance and operational efficiency.

Operators should be cautious of any advertising from inventory tracking systems claiming immediate integration capabilities. Understanding the realistic requirements and timelines is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring smooth operations.

Steps Canix is Taking

  • Engagement with Policy Makers: By advocating for clearer language and better guidance, we aim to resolve any ambiguities and provide clear guidance to our clients.
  • Advanced Preparation: Our teams are diligently working on integration strategies to ensure we are ready to support you as soon as the API is released. Our engineering team, staffed with experts in building complex integrations, has gained valuable experience from previous versions of BioTrack.
  • Current Operational Support: New York operators are already up and running on Canix using standalone instances that will transition to BioTrack-connected instances. This ensures they have a system to keep them running smoothly now, as well as complete historical reporting.

Ensuring Compliance and Efficiency with Canix

Understanding and adhering to regulatory deadlines is critical, but it's equally important to ensure that your operations remain efficient and compliant. At Canix, we are dedicated to providing you with the tools and support needed to navigate these changes successfully.

For operators looking to achieve operational efficiency and compliance, choosing Canix as your Electronic Inventory Tracking System provider now is the best way to ensure you are prepared for any future regulatory requirements. By onboarding with Canix today, you can ensure a seamless transition once the BioTrack API is live, with all of your essential historical data maintained and integrated smoothly.

Stay tuned for further updates and detailed guidance on the BioTrack API integration. If you have any questions or need immediate assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team.

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