STATEMENT FROM SENATOR SERINO ON THE LEGALIZATION OF ADULT USE RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA

ALBANY, NY – Senator Sue Serino today released the statement below following the passage of the ‘Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act’ (S. 854-A):

“At a time when we have all been told repeatedly to ‘follow the science,’ scientific and other concerns put forth by public health officials, law enforcement, and members of our school and business communities have been ignored so the state can profit off a bill that unfortunately remains dangerously flawed.

Unlike with alcohol, currently, no accurate roadside scientific test exists to detect marijuana in an impaired driver, making it incredibly difficult to deter impaired driving, and even more difficult to hold those who do drive while impaired accountable for any harm they may cause. A lack of available detection methods will also pose a number of health and safety challenges in the workplace—whether on a construction site, in a healthcare facility or elsewhere. Most importantly, while the intent of this bill is to legalize only adult-use recreational marijuana, I remain incredibly worried about the unintended consequences it will have on our kids.

I govern by listening, and I have spent significant time listening to those on both sides of this debate. While I understand and respect the points all have offered, significant health and safety concerns remain unaddressed in this particular bill. Therefore, I could not in good conscience support its passage at this time.” 

-30-