Advocates for legalizing marijuana in New York State rallied at the State Capitol, as the legislative session draws to a close.
Supporters say the public backs legalizing marijuana and it would provide needed revenue for the state through its regulation and taxation. State Senator Liz Krueger, who represents parts of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, also portrayed it as a criminal justice issue.
“How many people smoke marijuana in this country? Millions and millions and millions. Who are the only people who end up in our criminal justice system because they smoke marijuana? Black and brown people. That’s right.”
The measure stands little chance of passage in the State Senate, though, and Governor Cuomo has not been a supporter.
New York does permit the use of marijuana for limited medical purposes.
