De Blasio Says He Hasn't Smoked Marijuana Since NYU Days
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Mayor Bill de Blasio laughed Wednesday as he dismissed a reporter's question about whether he ever smoked marijuana in the Gracie Mansion.
Referencing "an issue that was brought up by a TV commentator yesterday," a reporter asked, "Since you've been mayor, have either you or your wife smoked marijuana inside of Gracie Mansion?"
"No," the mayor said. "I haven't smoked marijuana since I was at NYU."
The mayor made the remarks at an unrelated news conference about his decision to lift a ban on cellphones in New York City public schools.
The question was in reference to comments by former NYPD detective Bo Dietl on Fox News, according to a DNAInfo report.
On the program "Outnumbered," Dietl – calling the mayor "Big Bird" – suggested that de Blasio is often late because of "certain things you do" while making an evocative gesture and saying marijuana can result in a "tired" and "lazy" demeanor.
The mayor likewise said he has not smoked marijuana since college when asked about it in November, DNAInfo reported.
In November under a plan backed by the mayor, the NYPD began allowing officers to issue simple summonses for certain low-level marijuana offenses, rather than making arrests.
But de Blasio said in announcing that plan that he did not favor the full legalization of marijuana.
"I am not comfortable with the notion of legalization," added de Blasio. "Any substance that alters your consciousness is a potential danger – especially if you're driving."
Check Out These Other Stories From CBSNewYork.com: