Title:
N.Y. Legislature adjourns without improving marijuana policies
Message:
A few weeks ago, Gov. Andrew Cuomo made worldwide headlines when he called for the closing of a much-abused loophole to New York’s 35-year-old decriminalization law. Meanwhile, a sitting judge described how medical marijuana alleviates the effects of his cancer treatments, and the Assembly passed medical marijuana legislation for the third time.
While the pressure is building for reform, we’re not there yet: Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos (R-Nassau County) opposed the decrim fix, expressing an absurd concern that people could walk around with 10 joints in each ear. The Senate once again didn’t vote on medical marijuana, and though Gov. Cuomo’s position on medical marijuana softened, he didn’t support passage in 2012.
Please call Sen. Skelos and Gov. Cuomo to ask them to support medical marijuana patients. You can also write your legislators and the legislative leaders in support of the decrim fix bill.
Although progress may seem slow, there is much reason for hope. Politicians are increasingly realizing that far from being a third rail, supporting sensible marijuana policies can help them get elected. As Election Day gets closer, MPP will send New York state legislative candidates a questionnaire and will send our email list an election guide.
Onward!
