Statement from New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker on Status of Regulated Marijuana Report

ALBANY, N.Y. (June 18, 2018) - Governor Cuomo called on the Department to assess the impact of a regulated marijuana program back in January. At that time the Governor correctly pointed out that the facts have changed regarding this issue. Our border states have already legalized marijuana or are in the process of doing so. The report is being finalized, but it concludes the pros of a regulated program outweigh the cons. The report also concludes that should a regulated program be implemented, special consideration will need to be given to a number of factors including the age of who can purchase marijuana, who can grow and distribute it, the location of dispensaries, and at what rate the product would be taxed. The report raises a number of thoughtful questions and we look forward to delivering it for Governor Cuomo’s review.