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Cannabis legalization has made significant progress in the United States, with more than one-half of the states allowing its use for medical or recreational purposes, or both. However, despite these developments, cannabis is still illegal at the federal level.
A recent report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) highlights the growing divide between federal and state laws, which creates inconsistent policies and could pose risks to public health. Initially, state regulations focused on the business side of cannabis, such as revenue and sales, overlooking public health.
This has led to a situation where policymakers are now scrambling to catch up. The report stresses the importance of federal guidance and consistent national standards to regulate the quality and potency of cannabis, ensuring consumer safety.
Below are five key takeaways from the report:
Cannabis use surpasses alcohol consumption
As per the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more American adults reported using cannabis nearly every day in 2022 than alcohol, which was the first time marijuana overtook alcohol in terms of frequent use.
During the past 30 years, the number of regular marijuana users has grown significantly, from fewer than a million people in 1992 to almost 18 million in 2022. As cannabis becomes legal in more states, it is easier for people to obtain, with about two-thirds of adults saying the substance is fairly easy to get.
Additionally, the cost of cannabis has decreased, particularly in terms of the cost per unit of THC, the compound responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive effects.
The potency of cannabis products is often undisclosed
Cannabis has progressively grown more THC-concentrated over time. Although smoking dried marijuana flower remains common, there’s been a surge in the popularity of vape oils, edibles and other products.
While some states limit THC levels in certain cannabis products, such as edibles, many other cannabis products remain unregulated. THC concentrations in products such as shatter, wax and dabs can range from 60% to 90%, according to Dr. Yasmin Hurd, head of the Addiction Institute at Mount Sinai.
These high-potency products increase the risk of overconsumption, contributing to more hospital visits and accidents.
Psychoactive hemp products are available in states where cannabis is illegal
Despite marijuana being classified as a schedule I drug under federal law, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized certain hemp-derived products. This has led to an influx of products containing substances, including delta-8 THC and CBD, some of which can still have psychoactive effects.
These hemp-based products are often sold even in states where cannabis remains illegal, though they are largely unregulated. Health officials have raised concerns about the safety of these products, and the report recommends closing this regulatory loophole.
Cannabis research faces significant obstacles
Studying cannabis remains a challenge due to its classification as a schedule I drug, which places strict limitations on researchers. These restrictions make it difficult to conduct studies on the health effects of cannabis.
Even agencies such as the White House Office of National Drug Policy are not permitted to research the impacts of cannabis legalization. The report recommends that Congress remove these barriers and support more extensive research.
Marijuana health risks are often overlooked amid growing public support
Many people view cannabis as less harmful since its legalization, yet awareness of its potential risks remains low. THC has been linked to increased risks of marijuana use disorder, psychosis and suicidal thoughts, especially when consumed in higher doses.
With pro-marijuana advertising becoming more widespread, especially among young adults, there is growing concern about the long-term effects.
The report advocates for public health initiatives to educate the public on the risks, especially targeting vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women and seniors. Moreover, it calls for better training for marijuana retail staff to provide accurate information to consumers.
This report is likely to draw the interest of cannabis companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) because it contains numerous insights that can offer glimpses into the discussion points likely to shape future federal policy on marijuana.
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