New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) on Thursday took a big step toward legalizing marijuana for recreational use in the state, announcing that he has set up a working group to write a bill implementing recommendations from the state Department of Health to legalize and regulate cannabis.
“As we work to implement the report’s recommendations through legislation, we must thoroughly consider all aspects of a regulated marijuana program, including its impact on public health, criminal justice and State revenue, and mitigate any potential risks associated with it,” Cuomo said in a statement.
Alphonso David, counsel to the governor, will oversee the working group, gathering and implementing feedback from government officials and other stakeholders. Public safety, public health, and economic experts and officials will be on the panel.
Once the group comes up with a proposal, it will be up to the legislature to pass it before Cuomo can sign it into law.
Top photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
