The movement to legalize medicinal marijuana is gaining momentum in New York, with a proposal to let some people grow their own or buy from a state-approved organization.

Sen. Thomas Duane of New York City is introducing the bill, which will have a matching version sponsored by Manhattan Assemblyman Richard Gottfried. The Democrat-led Assembly has passed similar measures in recent years, but the issue fizzled in the formerly Republican-led Senate.

Now Democrats have taken control the Senate and the issue could get some traction in that chamber. A spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith didn’t immediately comment.

Gov. David Paterson’s office also did not comment on the proposal Duane is set to release Tuesday.

(Source: Newsday)