Town of Gates votes to opt-out of legal recreational marijuana sales
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GATES, N.Y. (WHEC) — The Town of Gates voted Wednesday night to opt-out of legal recreational marijuana sales.
As part of the marijuana law signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in March, local governments can pass stricter rules on marijuana use, prohibit retail dispensaries or cannabis lounges and impose small civil penalties.
Municipalities that wish to do so must decide and pass a local law by Dec. 31, 2021.
Gates Police Chief James VanBrederode tweeted Wednesday saying that there are just too many unknowns.
Town of Gates voted tonight … local law #12…..opting out of allowing marihuana sales in Gates. Thank you to our Town Board! Too many unknowns right now. pic.twitter.com/LIq5IeTxTq
— Jim VanBrederode (@jvanbred) November 3, 2021
VanBrederode has long warned about of the state’s legalization of recreational marijuana, telling News10NBC that he believes creating a legal marijuana market may not decrease the illegal market and that some people may be irresponsible and drive under the influence.
The City of Watertown, not far from the 1000 Islands, also voted to opt-out of recreational marijuana sales back in July.
