Legal marijuana
On March 31, Governor Cuomo signed the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) legalizing the possession and use of cannabis by adults 21 years of age and older.
What are some of the key components of this major shift in public policy?
Possession: Adults over 21 can possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis and 24 grams of concentrated cannabis (like vape oi or edibles). Adults may possess up to five pounds of cannabis at their personal residence of grounds.
Where you can use: It is illegal to consume while driving a motor vehicle. Smoking is prohibited anywhere tobacco is prohibited. Property owners, landlords and rental companies may ban use on their premises.
Driving: it is illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana. You can be charged with a DUI and subject to the same penalties as driving under the influence of alcohol.
Home Grow: Adults over 21 may cultivate up to six plants in their home for personal use (maximum of 12 plants per household). This does not take effect until eighteen months after first adult-use retail sale and the New York Office of Cannabis Management has issued regulations governing home cultivation.
Local Opt-out: Cities, towns and villages can opt-out of allowing adult use cannabis retail dispensaries or on-site consumption licenses from locating in their jurisdictions.. Municipalities cannot opt-out of adult-use legalization.
(The New York State Office of Cannabis Management)