With New York Governor Andrew Cuomo making the legalization of recreational marijuana one of his top priorities for 2019, lots of questions remain about the specifics of the law and its implications for communities across the state.

It’s one reason why the Norwood News, in partnership with BronxNet Television and WFUV Public Radio have organized a forum around this topic dubbed, “Bronx Connections: The Impact of Legal Weed,” which will be presented and televised live on March 21 at 6:30 p.m.

Concerns still loom over the impact of the bill. Some want to make sure those incarcerated for the sale or possession of marijuana are released and have their records expunged; others are concerned about quality of life issues, like driving while high and secondhand pot smoke in apartment buildings. Our panel will share their insights on the possible legalization of recreational marijuana, and answer audience questions on what this legislation could mean for the Bronx.

Panelists participating in the forum include state Sen. Jamaal Bailey, chairman of the committee on codes; Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, a doctor with Montefiore Health System; Eli Northrup with the Bronx Defenders, and Joseph A. Thompson, Bronx Community Board 11 member and president of the 49th Precinct Community Council. The forum is inviting up to 40 members of the public. To RSVP, please send an email to events@wfuvnews.org. Invitations are on a first come, first served, basis.