Officials To Host Public Hearing To Discuss Legalizing Marijuana

SMITHTOWN, NY - Suffolk County officials will be hosting a public hearing next month to discuss the possibility of legalizing the use of recreational marijuana.

Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory, Legislator William Spencer, chair of the Legislature’s Health Committee, and Legislator Tom Donnelly, chair of the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee will be hosting the meeting to get public input as New York State is looking to make recreational marijuana legal.

The public hearing will be held on Monday, February 25 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Suffolk County Legislature’s William H. Rogers Building on 725 Veterans Memorial Highway in Smithtown.

Although state officials have not yet voted on the matter, Presiding Officer Gregory wants to be prepared and educated on all sides well in advance of any state action.

The issue may eventually come before the County Legislature, as policy decisions may need to be made relating to rollout of a state law.

"So many considerations surround legalizing recreational marijuana," Gregory said. "This is a new industry that will impact society at every level. We are entering unchartered territory, and we want to make sure we hear all sides, explore all angles, and understand all opinions so that we are prepared should this issue come before the Legislature."

If the law is passed, New York would be the 11th state to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.

Constituents seeking more information may call 631-853-4088.