Governor Andrew Cuomo is expected to add New York to the 20 states allowing medical marijuana use.
Cuomo would use administrative powers rather than legislative action to allow a limited number of hospitals to use marijuana to treat certain ailments. The plan was first reported by The New York Times.
Marijuana remains illegal in New York, though possession of small amounts has been reduced to a low-level violation subject to a fine.
The state Drug Policy Alliance was briefed on Cuomo's plan Saturday.
Cuomo is set to formally announce his plan in his state of the state speech Wednesday.
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