1.26.19 - Senator Fred Akshar Continues 2019 Community Voice Survey Questions with Poll on Legalization of Recreational Marijuana

Senator Fred Akshar released his latest in a series of online surveys this week in an effort to listen to constituents of the 52nd Senate District on the many issues set to come before the New York State Senate this year. 

Akshar is asking his constituents to weigh in on the Governor's proposal to legalize recreational marijuana. Key provisions of the proposal include:

1. Establishing separate licensing programs for marijuana growers, distributors and retailers, with a ban on growers also opening retail shops.
2. Imposing a 20 percent state tax and 2 percent local tax on the sale of the drug from wholesalers to retailers, plus a per-gram tax on growers.
3. Allowing counties and large cities to ban marijuana sales within their boundaries.
4. Banning marijuana sales to anyone under the age of 21.

Executive Budget documents showed no state revenue from marijuana regulation and taxation for the 2020 fiscal year, and $83 million for 2021. Governor Cuomo estimates that legalization would bring in $300 million each year in tax revenue when fully implemented in 2023. (source)
 

“While I'm personally opposed to legalizing recreational marijuana, it's important for the people of the 52nd Senate District to have a chance to weigh in on this issue,” said Akshar. “Make no mistake, I always make it a point to do my own research and always vote my conscience on every piece of legislation that comes before me in the Senate, but I wouldn't be doing my job as State Senator if I didn't actively listen to the people I represent. While we utilize a variety of mediums to stay in touch with the people of the 52nd Senate District, including public town halls and telephone town halls, these public community voice surveys are just another way for me utilize modern technology and allow the public to weigh in on important issues. With so many issues coming in quick succession, online surveys are the most efficient way to make sure my constituents can voice their opinions.”

Constituents are urged to visit Akshar.NYSenate.Gov and let Sen. Akshar know how they feel about the proposal.

Direct link to survey: https://www.nysenate.gov/questionnaires/fred-akshar/community-voice-survey-recreational-marijuana 

Full text of budget proposal starting on page 200: https://www.budget.ny.gov/pubs/archive/fy20/exec/artvii/revenue-artvii.pdf