Drug Paraphernalia Legislation Considered in Mt. Kisco
Legislation before the Mount Kisco Village Board that would ban the sale and display of drug accessories was debated last week with general support expressed for the proposal.
The measure is being spearheaded by Deputy Mayor Anthony Markus. There is no provision in the village code to bar the sale and display of drug paraphernalia, Markus noted.
Among the objects that would be prohibited are pipes, masks, miniature cocaine spoons and bongs.
During a May 16 public hearing, two speakers favored the legislation and one voiced opposition. Resident Lisa Abzun, an opponent of the proposal, said tobacco and alcohol are known to cause significant harm but are openly displayed in stores and sold legally.
She also said the proposed law was too vague. For example, it covers the sale and display of items that are used for purposes other than drug use, Abzun said.
Barry Malvin, one of two speakers who supported the legislation, said the sale and display of drug paraphernalia was counter to Mount Kisco’s “community values.” Youths attempt to hide their marijuana use through accessories such as e-cigarettes, he added.
David Ley, the second proponent of the law who spoke, said stores that sold drug paraphernalia did not have a place in the village.
“I just don’t want this on Main Street,” he said.
Markus said the law would not prevent anyone from using medical marijuana if given a prescription. Marijuana for medical purposes was legalized under the Compassionate Care Act that was approved in mid-2014.
Items used for legitimate purposes would not be banned under the proposed law, Markus said. The ban pertained to items that are intended for drug use, he said.
Mayor Michael Cindrich said he understood the arguments of the law’s supporters and detractors. Having the public protest businesses that are known to sell drug paraphernalia is one way to discourage the practice, he said.
The board voted unanimously to close the public hearing. Written comments will be accepted by the village for 30 days.
Trustees could vote on the legislation at the board’s June 20 meeting.
