Marijuana legalization ‘not likely’ in New York budget, Cuomo says

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday the state is not likely to authorize marijuana for adult use as part of its budget process, dealing a blow to advocates who have spent years pushing for full legalization of the drug.

Cuomo, a Democrat, had proposed legalizing recreational marijuana as part of his initial $178 billion state budget proposal in January.

But with a key budget deadline looming and the coronavirus crisis complicating negotiations with the Legislature, Cuomo said legalization likely won’t make the final spending plan.

New York’s fiscal year begins Wednesday, meaning Cuomo and lawmakers have to strike a deal Tuesday and complete voting in order for a budget to be in place on time.

“Not likely,” Cuomo said when asked Tuesday whether marijuana legalization will be in the final budget.“Too much, too little time.”

It remained unclear Tuesday afternoon whether Cuomo and lawmakers would be able to meet the budget deadline.

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