Cuomo is turning to Norman Birenbaum, the former implementation director for the Rhode Island Office of Cannabis Regulation, to fill the new post. A quick look at his Rhode Island experience and implemenation suggests not everybody is a fan and are happy to send him off to the big apple.

 

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Monday announced the appointment of a director of cannabis programs.

Cuomo is turning to Norman Birenbaum, the former implementation director for the Rhode Island Office of Cannabis Regulation, to fill the new post.

The appointment comes as New York lawmakers are once again expected to debate the legalization of retail marijuana. And, at the same time, New York has previously sought to expand its hemp and CBD regulations as well.

Cuomo has previously suggested he would pair marijuana legalization with a broader discussion over the effects of vaping amid public health concerns over e-cigarette use.