Cannabis: New York City Legalizes Recreational Use of …

The New York State Legislature approved the recreational use of marijuana on Tuesday morning. The approval came after Gov. Andrew Cuomo reached a deal with New York lawmakers over the weekend. This way New York joins 14 other states – plus the District of Columbia – that already allow recreational cannabis use.

“This historic law does justice to communities long marginalized, promotes a new industry that will grow the economy and it establishes substantial security guarantees for the people, ”Cuomo said in a statement.

The governor’s office also indicated that the entry into force of the regulations could translate into around $ 350 million a year in taxes and create tens of thousands of jobs.

The law will allow people over the age of 21 buy cannabis and grow plants for personal use. In addition, the standard contemplates a plan for part of the funds raised are dedicated to treating problematic substance use and to education.

Upon the implementation of the law, the State of New York automatically erase the records of those previously convicted of marijuana-related offenses who will no longer be punished, as well as fines for possession of 85 grams, the new limit set by the regulations.

The move comes as Cuomo faces multiple investigations, including a sexual harassment complaint and an alleged cover-up of deaths at a covid-19 nursing home.