ALBANY, N.Y. - Governor Andrew Cuomo could release a plan to legalize recreational marijuana as early as next month as part of his executive budget.

This represents a major about-face on the issue for the governor.

Just last year he called marijuana a gateway drug.  

Democratic Leaders in both the State Senate and the Assembly are in favor of legalization.

When they take control of the legislature next month, it has a good chance of passing.

Studies show the government here in New York could raise close to the $3 billion annually in taxes on marijuana.

Some have already proposed dedicating that money to the MTA.