New Yorkers have heard this one before. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced this week marijuana legalization will be included in his administration’s 2020 budget proposal. The move signals another ardent effort from the governor to push the issue through the state legislature.
Cuomo made similar gestures last year, including placing marijuana legalization in his administration’s 2019 budget proposal. He eventually removed legalization from the budget once it became clear state lawmakers would not agree on significant details ahead of legislative deadlines. Cuomo believes, however, that this year will be different.
“Legalize adult use cannabis,” Cuomo said in his budget speech. “I believe it is best done in the budget. I said that last year. I believe the budget is the opportunity, frankly, to make some tough decisions and work through tough issues that without the budget can often languish. I suggest that we get it done in the budget.”