Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Governor Cuomo Announces Proposal to Legalize and Create an Equitable Adult-use Cannabis Program as Part of the 2021 State of the State

 

Proposal to Create the new Office of Cannabis Management to Regulate State Medical and Adult-use Cannabis and Cannabinoid Hemp Programs

Equitable Market Structure to Invest in Individuals and Communities Disproportionately Impacted by Prohibition

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a proposal to legalize and create a comprehensive system to oversee and regulate cannabis in New York as part of the 2021 State of the State. Under the Governor's proposal, a new Office of Cannabis Management would be created to oversee the new adult-use program, as well as the State's existing medical and cannabinoid hemp programs. Additionally, an equitable structure for the adult-use market will be created by offering licensing opportunities and assistance to entrepreneurs in communities of color who have been disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. Once fully implemented, legalization is expected to generate more than $300 million in tax revenue. 

"Despite the many challenges New York has faced amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it has also created a number of opportunities to correct longstanding wrongs and build New York back better than ever before," Governor Cuomo said. "Not only will legalizing and regulating the adult-use cannabis market provide the opportunity to generate much-needed revenue, but it also allows us to directly support the individuals and communities that have been most harmed by decades of cannabis prohibition."

The Governor's proposal builds on years of work to understand and decriminalize cannabis for adult use. In 2018, the Department of Health, under Governor Cuomo's direction, conducted a multi-agency study which concluded that the positive impacts of legalizing adult-use cannabis far outweighed the negatives. It also found that decades of cannabis prohibition have failed to achieve public health and safety goals and have led to unjust arrests and convictions particularly in communities of color. 

In 2019, Governor Cuomo signed legislation to decriminalize the penalties for unlawful possession of marijuana. The legislation also put forth a process to expunge records for certain marijuana convictions. Later that year, the Governor spearheaded a multi-state summit to discuss paths towards legalization of adult-use cannabis that would ensure public health and safety and coordinate programs regionally to minimize the cross-border movement of cannabis products.

Building on that important work, the proposal reflects national standards and emerging best practices to promote responsible use, limiting the sale of cannabis products to adults 21 and over and establishing stringent quality and safety controls including strict regulation of the packaging, labeling, advertising, and testing of all cannabis products. Cannabis regulation also offers the opportunity to invest in research and direct resources to communities that have been most impacted by cannabis prohibition.

Governor Cuomo Announces Proposal to Enable Online Sports Wagering as Part of the 2021 State of the State

 

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced legislation to authorize mobile sports wagering as part of the 2021 State of the State. Under Governor Cuomo's proposal, the New York State Gaming Commission will issue a request for proposals to select and license a sports operator or platform to offer mobile sports wagering in New York. This operator or platform must have a partnership with one of the existing licensed commercial casinos. The Commission will also require any entity operating mobile wagering apps include safeguards against abuses and addiction.

"At a time when New York faces a historic budget deficit due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the current online sports wagering structure incentivizes a large segment of New York residents to travel out of state to make online sports wagers or continue to patronize black markets," Governor Cuomo said. "New York has the potential to be the largest sports wagering market in the United States, and by legalizing online sports betting we aim to keep millions of dollars in revenue here at home, which will only strengthen our ability to rebuild from the COVID-19 crisis." 

The sports gambling market is evolving rapidly. In 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court in Murphy v. NCAA overturned a federal law prohibiting most states from authorizing sports wagering. Sports wagering is now legal online in 14 states, including the bordering states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, while it is only legal in New York at the four Upstate commercial gaming facilities and Native American gaming facilities.  An industry study found that nearly 20 percent of New Jersey's sports wagering revenue comes from New York residents, costing the State millions of dollars in lost tax revenue.  

STATEMENT FROM ASSEMBLYMAN JEFFREY DINOWITZ ON APPOINTMENT AS CHAIR OF CODES COMMITTEE

 

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz has previously chaired Committees on the Judiciary, Corporations, Authorities and Commissions, Consumer Affairs and Protection, Aging, and Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.


 Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz has been appointed as Chairman of the New York State Assembly Standing Committee on Codes with the start of the 2021-2022 New York State Legislature. Assemblyman Dinowitz most recently served as Chairman of the Assembly Judiciary Committee.

 

The Assembly Codes Committee considers issues and legislation regarding New York’s criminal and civil justice system, including legislation to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, the Penal Law, the Civil Practice Law and Rules, as well as selected articles of the Executive Law. Additionally, this committee also has jurisdiction over legislation from other committees that impose or change any fine, term of imprisonment, forfeiture of rights or property, or other penal sanction, as well as legislation related to the procedure by which such fine, term of imprisonment, forfeiture, or other penal sanction is imposed or changed.

 

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz said: “I am very proud and privileged to be appointed by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie as Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Codes. I have very large shoes to fill left by the previous chair, Joe Lentol, who had a long list of accomplishments. I thank the Speaker for the great confidence he has placed in me and it is a tremendous honor to chair this key committee on behalf of New Yorkers. There are many important issues before the legislature this year that will be considered by the Codes Committee and I look forward to working with my colleagues and the residents and advocates of our state to ensure that we achieve justice and fairness for all New Yorkers.”

 


Partnership for Parks - Bronx Newsblast-January 2021

 

Happy New Year! Here’s to a better and brighter 2021. Make NYC greener by recycling your Christmas tree at Mulchfest and check out other local events and news below.

HIGHLIGHTS

Loving the Bronx Hosts Saturday Mulchfest at Metropolitan Oval
Join Loving the Bronx as they celebrate this annual NYC tradition to mulch trees from the holidays. Games, hot chocolate from Morris Perk and more! 
Date/Time: Saturday,  Jan 9, 11:00am- 1:00pm
Location: Metropolitan Oval Parkchester (the fountain), Metropolitan Oval Parkchester Metropolitan Avenue & Unionport Road
More info: For more information about this community event contact via facebook @LovingtheBronx or lovingthebronx@yahoo.com
Or for more information and additional locations, visit nyc.gov/parks/mulchfest or call 311.
Community Input Meetings
Community Input Meetings are your opportunity to share your vision and thoughts for your neighborhood park with us, so that we can create thriving open spaces for your neighbors and for all New Yorkers. Join us at our upcoming digital community input meeting to share your ideas!

Orchard Beach Skate Park
Thursday January 21, 6:30pm
Virtual Meeting
Must Register by: Thursday January 21 at 5:00pm.

Ferry Point Park 9-11 Living Memorial Flag Pole
Tuesday January 26, 6:30pm
Virtual Meeting
Must Register by: Tuesday January 26 at 5:00pm.

Woodlawn Playground in Van Cortlandt Park
Thursday January 28, 6:30pm
Virtual Meeting
Must Register by Thursday January 28 at 5:00pm.


Adopt-a-Bench or Plant and Dedicate a Tree 
The holiday season may be over but it’s not too late to Adopt-a-Bench! You can also plant and dedicate a tree!

Honor a loved one or celebrate a special occasion with NYC Parks, and make the city a greener place. Support your favorite park, leave a legacy, and more! Your contributions are tax-deductible and matching gifts are accepted. For more information and available locations to Adopt-a-Bench, contact adoptabench@parks.nyc.gov or (212) 360-8216 and to plant and dedicate a tree, contact nytreetrust@parks.nyc.gov or (718) 361-8101.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Run or Walk with Bronx Sole Starting at Franz Sigel Park
Get active with a socially distant run, run/walk and walk with us! You must wear a mask and we have hand sanitizer on deck. 
Date/Time:  Tuesdays at 6:00pm & Saturdays at 10:00am
Location:  Franz Sigel Park, Walton Ave & Gerard Ave., Grand Concourse bet. E. 151 St., E. 153 St. and, E 158th St, 10451
More info: You must sign up on Eventbrite before you show up. The link for Tuesdays posts at 7:00pm on Sundays and the link for Saturdays posts at 7:00pm on Wednesdays. Here is the link: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/bronx-sole-30575605448

TRAININGS

GreenThumb hosts diverse and engaging events and workshops that support community garden groups in NYC. The workshops are free and located across the city. Check and see if there is one near you!  

Rat Academy: Keeping the Garden Rat-Free
Learn Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies for keeping rats from wrecking your garden. In this workshop with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, participants will learn proper rat prevention measures, how to look for signs of rats, and how to correct the conditions that attract rats
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 13, 2021 from 5:00 pm -7:00 pm 
Location:  Online 
RSVP: RSVP here (so they can be in touch with information for joining virtually) 

Virtual:Introduction to Finding Grants
Are you new to the field of grantseeking? Discover what funders are looking for in nonprofits seeking grants and how to find potential funders in this introductory course. You will learn the 10 most important things you need to know about finding grants, including: Who funds nonprofits and what are their motivations. What do funders really want to know about the organizations they are interested in funding. How do you identify potential funders and make the first approach?
Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2020  from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm  EST
Location: Online
Cost: Free

Virtual- Orientation to Nonprofit and Fundraising Resources 
Are you new to Candid? This orientation will tell you who we are, what we do, and how our resources can help you. In a time of uncertainty, many nonprofit professionals and their organizations are facing unique challenges. Candid’s wide variety of resources, including online tools and trainings, can help you navigate these challenges. With our most trusted data and special programs on important issues in the social sector, Candid can help you fundraise effectively during these difficult times. 
Date: Tuesday, January 12, 2020  from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm  EST
Location: Online
Cost: Free

Virtual- Top Fundraising Trends to Capitalize on in 2021
While the future remains uncertain, Classy is uncovering its predictions for 2021 (and very likely, beyond.) During this webinar, you’ll walk away with insight into key fundraising themes that have arisen and how you can capitalize on them in 2021.
Date: Wednesday, January 20, 2020  from 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm  EST
Location: Online
Cost: Free

Leadership Training Academy
CHEJ offers a multidisciplinary Leadership Training Academy program for environmental activists to strengthen the capacity, infrastructure and effectiveness of grassroots leaders. CHEJ staff holds the academy sessions at regional sites across the country, lowering costs for participants, and while there is a small fee for attendance, the cost can be waived for groups in low-income communities. Some training topics include: Building a Strong Effective Community Group, Successful Fundraising, Getting and Keeping More People Involved, and building an Effective Board for your Organization.
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis
Location: TBA

GRANTS AND RESOURCES

EcoSolution™ Grants 
ecoSolution™ Grants range from $500-$2,500 and are intended to support solution-oriented, youth-led projects that result in real environmental outcomes. ecoSolution™ Grants are available to educators working with youth in the United States (international projects are by invitation only). Please note that ecoSolution™ Grants will only support direct project costs. 
Date/Time: Deadline January 15, 2021

KEEN Effect Youth Grant Program 
KEEN's Youth Grant Program funds grassroots organizations immersing kids in the outdoors. Since 2014, their partners have brought thousands of youth outside for recreation, nature-based education, and environmental stewardship, actively building a future full of formative experiences and lasting values built in nature. They support programs inspiring outdoor participation, engaging underserved communities of youth with innovative and creative programming, and are willing to share their stories with KEEN's audience.
Date/Time: Deadline January, 31 2021

People For Bikes Community Grant Program 
The PeopleForBikes Community Grant Program offers funding to build momentum for bicycling in communities across the United States. Grants of up to $10,000 are provided for bicycle infrastructure projects and targeted advocacy efforts that make it easier and safer for people of all ages and abilities to ride.
Date/Time: Deadline Letters of interest will be accepted from December 14th to January 22nd. Full applications are due April 9th, 2021

All in Neighborhood Grants
Grassroots organizations responding to the immediate needs of struggling New Yorkers will receive unrestricted grants of up to $10,000 to open food pantries, distribute surgical masks, arrange elderly check-ins, or design other projects to meet their neighborhoods’ urgent needs amid the COVID-19 crisis. This grant program is a renaming of their keystone Neighborhood Grants program, which for decades has been awarding micro-grants to resident-led groups to improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. Grants supported projects in arts, health, environmental justice, beautification, tenants’ rights, and more. 
Date/Time: Application process will open in January 2021 

ePromos for Good  
Could your organization use $500 in free promotional products? Do you have at least a month before you need the products? epromos gives away $500 in free promotional products to organizations in need. Apply to win free promotional materials!
Date/Time: Bimonthly 

Gardens for the City Grant
Is there a community space in your neighborhood you’d like to see transformed? If so, apply for NYRP’s help. NYRP provides support for projects of various scales — from building a few vegetable beds to large-scale restoration work. NYRP helps provide materials, horticultural knowledge, environmental education, and construction expertise in order to help create community gardens and accessible landscapes in under-resourced neighborhoods. 
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Patagonia Retail Grants Program
Patagonia’s Retail Grants Program funds environmental work that takes place near one of their Patagonia retail stores. The Retail Grants Program supports small grassroots activist organizations with direct-action agendas. They are most interested in making Retail Grants to organizations that identify and work on the root causes of problems and approach issues with a commitment to long-term change. The funding range for a retail grant is typically between $8,000 and $12,000, depending on the specific needs of the project. Note: Each store’s grants program is handled differently and could be subject to change, depending on your location. Find and contact a Patagonia store near you.
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Good Sports Equipment Donations
All interested programs must submit an application in order to be considered for an equipment donation. All applicants must directly serve youth between the ages of 3-18, serve youth in an economically disadvantaged area, and provide access to play for kids. Good Sports is not able to donate to short term events such as sports camps, running/walking events or tournaments. Please review the eligibility guidelines before applying.
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Rapid Response Grant 
Apply for grants of up to $5,000 to support organizing, activism, and strategic convening in response to urgent threats or breaking opportunities, especially during critical junctures of a campaign.
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis.

Crush It Crusade 
Description: Are you interested in kick starting a recycling program in your local community? Apply for a Crush it Crusade recycling grant! Can’d Aid Foundation awards small grants, around $5,000, to fund program expenses including signage and education, and provides in-kind recycling tents and bins and training on sustainable waste management.
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Green Mountain Energy Sun Club Sustainability Grant 
Are you a U.S. based nonprofit looking to make a positive environmental impact and want access to a network of sustainability experts? Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with programs benefiting communities where Green Mountain Energy Company does business. Some sustainability initiatives can include: education and awareness, energy efficiency, renewable energy, resource conservation etc. Email them at sunclub@greenmountain.com if you have questions you’d like to ask before starting the application process.
Date/Time: Rolling Deadline. Recipients will be chosen on a quarterly basis

ioby Healthy Neighborhoods Challenge 
Have a great idea for making your neighborhood a healthier place to live? Fundraise for your idea with ioby’s Healthy Neighborhood Challenge. Anyone can receive one-on-one fundraising support and dollar-for-dollar matching funds up to $10,000 on their ioby crowdfunding campaign in support of projects that improve public health outcomes in the following communities in New York City: Brownsville, Brooklyn; Lower East Side, Manhattan, and East Harlem, Manhattan. 
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

ioby Power up Neighborhood Match 2020 
Get up to $5,000 doubled for creative, resident-led projects that are powering our thriving neighborhoods. The Power Up Neighborhood Match is available for projects that: promote local solution to environmental issues, make your neighborhood greener through caring for parks, gardens, or street trees, and that encourage resident use of and engagement with green spaces, beautify and enliven communities with the visual and performing arts, and take place in an eligible location in New York City. When you crowdfund on ioby for a project that is eligible for this match, donations will be doubled instantly so you can raise the money you need twice as fast.
Date/Time: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Lisa Libraries Grant Program 
Non Profit organizations that serve under resourced areas are eligible to apply for in-kind donations from The Lisa Libraries. Lisa Libraries provides donations of free books for community facilities to host their own small libraries or operate programs where children can take the book home. While book donations are free, The Lisa Libraries requests that recipients cover the shipping and handling costs, which are based on the destination and quantity of books. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Learn more and apply
Date/Time: Rolling Deadline

Waste Management Charitable Giving
Waste Management offers charitable gifts to promote civic pride, economic development and revitalization. Waste Management primarily supports environmental initiatives, including promoting parklands and green spaces for people to enjoy and play, and environmental education initiatives targeted at middle and high school students. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and public organizations. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Date/Time: Rolling Deadline

Robin Hood Relief Fund 
The Robin Hood Relief Fund will provide support to nonprofit organizations in two areas of relief response: general operating support to continue to run their organizations and provide services, and emergency cash assistance provided to individuals in need, as identified by community partners. Robin Hood anticipates making grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in New York City that are well-positioned to serve low-income communities. The initial grants, expected to last three months in duration, will average $45,000. The purpose of these grants is to provide resources to support nonprofits that are on the front lines of this work and can move swiftly to serve affected communities.
Date/Time: Rolling Deadline

 

Partnerships for Parks
A joint program of City Parks Foundation and NYC Parks
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