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The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been significant, with nearly half of the states now allowing its recreational use. However, the topic remains contentious and divisive, frequently leveraged by politicians. Some invoke fears about potential harm to oppose legalization, while others emphasize benefits such as increased revenue and reduced violent crime to advocate for it.
Scientific research on marijuana-related harms is relatively comprehensive. Regular consumption of high-potency marijuana, especially when initiated at a young age, is linked to mental health issues, including schizophrenia. It may also lead to cognitive difficulties, reduced academic performance, and an elevated risk of marijuana use disorder.
Consuming marijuana before driving—particularly within an eight-hour window—significantly raises the likelihood of traffic accidents. Additionally, cannabis use while pregnant has been associated with complications at birth.
A key question in this debate is how legalization influences these risks. The potency of cannabis, which directly impacts its harmful effects, has been rising in states with legal markets. This trend toward high-potency products began during cannabis prohibition in both Europe and the U.S. Some evidence also suggests that legal dispensaries may overstate potency levels to attract customers.
Marijuana use appears higher in states where it is legal, though this does not necessarily mean that legalization causes increased use. Research paints a mixed picture. While adult usage rates tend to rise after legalization, most studies show little to no change in marijuana use among adolescents. One complicating factor is that marijuana use has been on the rise since 2000, well before legalization became a trend.
A concerning trend tied to legalization is a rise in ER visits related to marijuana-induced psychosis and unintentional poisoning in youngsters. These incidents are more common in areas with a high density of marijuana stores and are partly attributed to the popularity of edible products, often designed to look like candy.
The question of marijuana legalization is not black and white. Decisions about drug policy can significantly influence both the prevalence of use and the societal impact. Lessons can be drawn from Uruguay, which legalized marijuana in 2012 while implementing strict regulations. The country has not seen a notable increase in marijuana use, addiction rates, or perceived harm compared to its neighbors.
Additionally, discussions on legalization must weigh the drawbacks of prohibition. Criminal organizations often profit from the illicit drug trade, fueling violence and expanding their reach. Research shows that strict drug law enforcement does not effectively prevent marijuana use and may even exacerbate related harms.
Ultimately, there is no flawless approach to drug policy, and substances like marijuana are likely to remain a part of society. Policymakers should adopt an evidence-based and balanced approach, learning from global examples to create thoughtful marijuana regulations that minimize harm and prioritize public health.
This balanced approach is precisely what the cannabis industry, including leading players like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), wish for every jurisdiction that is considering reforming its marijuana laws through voter initiatives or the legislature.
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