Sen. Griffo hosts roundtable discussion on recreational marijuana

UTICA – In an effort to learn more about the impact of legalizing recreational marijuana, state Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, recently hosted a roundtable discussion that allowed him to gain valuable insights and perspectives from numerous sources.

The meeting included area law enforcement, legal and medical representatives and other professionals. Participants taking part included:

• Oneida County District Attorney Scott McNamara
• Oneida County Sheriff Rob Maciol
• Capt. Ed Stevens, chair of the Oneida County Law Enforcement Coalition
• Attorney Mark Wolber
• Attorney Richard Pertz
• Oneida County Director of Health Phyllis D. Ellis
• Insight House President Donna Vitagliano
• Center for Family Life and Recovery CEO Cassandra Sheets
• Gary Colmey with Legalize It! CNY
• Landon Dias, Political Affairs and Compliance Manager at MedMen

The discussion focused on several topics, including the legal, clinical, medical and public safety aspects of legalizing recreational marijuana and any potential economic impact of doing so.

Sen. Griffo said, “There has been much discussion, deliberation and debate about legalizing marijuana for recreational use in New York State. Today’s discussion allowed for professionals and stakeholders from a variety of fields to express their views and opinions about the impact that legalizing recreational marijuana could have on New York State. I also will be reaching out to the public through a variety of means to get their thoughts on this issue in the future, and my staff or I will be attending listening sessions that are being conducted by the state Department of Health.

I will be keeping an open mind when it comes to this matter. We must ensure that we discuss, deliberate and examine all factors and aspects of this issue in making a decision.”

One of the statewide listening sessions will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 10 at the Holiday Inn at 1777 Burrstone Road in New Hartford. For more information, visit www.ny.gov/regulated-marijuana/regulated-marijuana-listening-sessions#.

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