Adult-use recreational marijuana is now legal in the state of New York.  Here's what you need to know:

The measure eliminates penalties for possession of less than 3 ounces of cannabis, and automatically expunges the records of people with past convictions for marijuana-related offenses that will no longer be criminalized. Individual New Yorkers can grow up to three mature and three immature plants for personal consumption.

It is in effect right now. 

The law allows people over the age of 21 to use marijuana. 

Well, not exactly.  Sales won’t start until New York sets up rules and a proposed cannabis board. New York Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes estimated Friday it could take 18 months to two years for sales to start.

The bill allows cities, towns and villages to opt out of allowing adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries or on-site consumption licenses by passing a local law by Dec. 31, 2021 or nine months after the effective date of the legislation. However, they cannot opt out of legalization - meaning adult residents can still use marijuana in an area where the retail sale has been banned.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration has estimated legalization could eventually bring the state about $350 million annually.  New York would also provide loans, grants and incubator programs to encourage participation in the cannabis industry by people from minority communities, as well as small farmers, women and disabled veterans.

As with any food or substance, there are always potential health risks that go along with benefits.  The CDC provides a comprehensive guide on the impacts of marijuana.