BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples Stokes said Wednesday she is "grateful" of the pacing of marijuana regulation under Governor Kathy Hochul compared to former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
"Not only did she just start a month ago, she's already put in place what should have happened back in June," the majority leader told WBEN.
The Office of Cannabis Management, the state agency tasked with regulating the marijuana industry in New York, met for the first time on Tuesday. The office officially hired 21 employees, named a Chief Equity Officer, and allowed doctors and other caregivers the ability to give patients a 60-day supply of medicinal cannabis.
Marijuana was legalized at the end of March, though people looking to enter the marijuana business must wait until the state gives them the appropriate license to do so.
"I'm hopeful that happens by the end of March," Peoples-Stokes said.
Jason Starr was named Chief Equity Officer of OCM. Stokes praised Starr for his work in legalization efforts while he was working in Governor Cuomo's administration.
Related
"He understands the intent of the legislation as well as the principle purposes behind it," Peoples-Stokes said. "I know he'll make sure that not only are we making the best recommendations for those in business, but we are making the best recommendations for where the 40% of the revenue will be invested in those who suffer from mass incarceration."