On the opening day of his State of the State address, Gov. Cuomo confirmed his administration’s intention of pursuing the legalization of recreational marijuana in New York state. Formerly a public opponent of the idea, the governor cites the adoption of similar policies in other states and the need to increase tax revenue in the midst of a pandemic as major reasons for his transformation.

Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deerpark) is against the proposal to legalize recreational marijuana in New York, as he has significant concerns with the inability to scientifically test motorists for marijuana impairment, suspicions of the actual financial upside for the state and of the effects that the normalization of drug use could have on our youth.

“There are too many questions and concerns with the legalization of recreational marijuana that absolutely must be addressed before I could ever support it,” said Brabenec. “Opening the door for medical research and medicinal use by individuals prescribed by doctors is one thing but legalizing the recreational use of a drug is a completely different story.

“What would the age requirement be to buy or use it? Who would be eligible to sell it? How do we scientifically test individuals for impairment while driving? Why has the state led an assault on tobacco just to pivot and support smoking marijuana?

“These questions and many others have to be asked, and absolutely must be answered. New York must not rush into the legalization of recreational marijuana without significant research and debate. Personally, I believe that the legalization of any substance for recreational use sends a message to our youth that it is ok. I caution those who are calling for legalization and encourage them to think about our kids and about the implications of encouraging an entire generation of children to experiment with drugs.”