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Here's why dozens of people pushed to legalize marijuana in front of NYS lawmakers

NYS lawmakers hold marijuana listening session
Posted at 11:27 PM, Sep 05, 2018
and last updated 2018-09-05 23:27:50-04

Marijuana advocates say New York lawmakers should legalize pot for adults, make it affordable and let people grow their own.

Of about 30 people who spoke at the first of 15 "listening sessions" on legalizing recreational marijuana Wednesday evening, most touted its therapeutic qualities. A few spoke against legalization, citing potential adverse health effects.

Marijuana will be a big issue when lawmakers return to Albany in January. In July, state health officials recommended legalizing recreational marijuana in a 74-page report that estimated it could generate nearly $700 million for the state.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has appointed a panel to draft legislation. While the Democrat has long opposed legalization, he has softened his stance under pressure from proponents, including actress Cynthia Nixon, who's challenging him in a primary next week.