1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. Why did the NY state association make this announcement?

3. To what motive do the police attribute Gov. Cuomo’s (and NY lawmakers) move to legalize this drug?

4. How many other states have legalized recreational marijuana?

5. How much money could the New York state government take in per year in taxes on marijuana sales?

6. Watch the video under "Resources" below. Do you think the benefit ($$$) outweighs the cost (increase in traffic accidents, some/many fatalities; breakdown of society overall)? Explain your answer.

CHALLENGE QUESTIONS:
a) Ask at least 2 adults over 40 if they know anyone their age who has used marijuana for a long time and if that person displays any negative side effects. Do they think that person would be better off now if not for long-term marijuana use? (Note: People who smoke marijuana regularly will adamantly argue against the idea that it has any negative effects on anyone.)

b) Over recent years, state governments have legalized online gambling and recreational marijuana, neither of which improves a person’s life, but rather leads to problems for many.
State governments take in large sums of money by legalizing and then taxing marijuana sales (and gambling). What responsibility do you think state leaders have a to address the dangers (unintended consequences) posed by legalizing recreational marijuana? Explain your answer.