Cuomo: Let Cities Opt Out Of Pot Shops If NY Legalizes Weed
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is dropping a few hints about his upcoming marijuana legalization proposal.
Speaking on public radio Monday, the Democratic governor says that if legalization moves ahead he believes local governments should have the power to prohibit retail pot shops within their boundaries. That's similar to the situation in neighboring Massachusetts, which now has six retail marijuana dispensaries.
Cuomo also said he wants to prohibit anyone under 21 from buying legal weed, mirroring the rules for alcohol.
More details are expected on Tuesday when Cuomo delivers his State of the State address on Tuesday.
While there's broad support for legalizing marijuana in New York, there's no consensus yet on the details, such as tax rates, licensing rules or the number of retail shops that would be allowed.