ALBANY – Legalization of recreational marijuana in New York is expected to be right around the corner.
Senator Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D, Yonkers) said it is not a matter of if, but when.
The governor would like it passed as part of the state budget, which would translate into millions in new revenue for the state. The budget deadline is April 1.
Stewart-Cousins said there is one “little impasse” over criminality of driving while ability is impaired, but she believes that can be overcome.
“We’re trying to figure a way forward so that there will be a way of some understanding of vehicle safety. I am pretty sure that we will be able to work through and that the Assembly will as well. I am optimistic that it will be resolved sooner than later,” she said.
Stewart-Cousins said legalization will also add to the economy and provide jobs as well as ease the legal impacts on the black and brown community, which she said has been hardest hit by current and past marijuana laws.
NEWS STORY PROVIDED BY: Mid Hudson News -www.midhudsonnews.com