Officially, New York legalizes marijuana

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill legalizing marijuana use, making New York the 16th US state legalizing marijuana sales to adults.

And the bill arrived in Como's office after the state assembly (parliament) voted 100 to 49 to pass the bill, under which New Yorkers 21 and over can have up to three ounces of marijuana legally outside the home. And buy hemp from authorized retailers.

"This is a historic day in New York, a day that corrects the mistakes of the past by putting an end to harsh prison penalties and embraces an industry that will grow our economy, and prioritize marginalized communities. So those who have suffered the most will be the first to reap the benefits," Cuomo said in a statement.

He noted that the bill has an economic incentive, as the new industry could generate $ 350 million in tax revenue and up to 60,000 new jobs in the state.

Under the law, a 13 percent sales tax will be imposed, 9 percent of revenue will go to the state and 4 percent will go to local communities.