The Town of Babylon has already figured it out—legal cannabis sales have brought in $1.2 million in tax revenue, funding drug treatment programs and educational initiatives that actually make a difference in people’s lives. Meanwhile, Islip sits on the sidelines, watching opportunity pass us by.

Let’s be clear: cannabis is legal in New York. The question isn’t whether it should exist—it already does. The question is: why is Islip refusing to reap the benefits? Why are we handing over millions to Babylon, Brookhaven, and dispensaries in Queens while our roads crumble, our schools lack resources, and our community programs remain underfunded?

Federal legalization is coming, whether we like it or not. The towns that act now will be ahead of the curve—Islip, however, is falling behind. We are losing money, plain and simple. And for what? Outdated stigmas? Misguided fear? The “just say no” era is over—it’s time to say YES to progress, YES to investment, and YES to keeping our tax dollars where they belong: right here in Islip.

We have a choice: continue watching other towns cash in, or take control of our future. It’s time to legalize sales, tax the green, and reinvest in the very things that make our town stronger—schools, roads, and public safety.

Islip, let’s stop leaving money on the table. The future is here—let’s claim our share.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​