MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION AND THE MYTH OF HARMLESS POT
A decade ago, Colorado became the first state to legalize marijuana in a landmark vote that jump-started a remarkably powerful cannabis reform movement. Today, recreational marijuana is legal in 19 states, two territories, and Washington DC, plus medical cannabis alone in an additional 39 states. In the upcoming midterms, five more states—including generally conservative Arkansas and North Dakota and South Dakota—will vote on legalization. If passed, almost half the states will have legalized recreational weed. One factor driving legalization is heavy lobbying by tobacco and food and drinks companies that have invested heavily in the $33 billion U.S. marijuana market. Yet, there’s also been a dramatic shift in perceptions: an overwhelming majority of Americans now believe that marijuana is essentially harmless—despite a growing body of scientific evidence indicating that it can be dangerous for many individuals.
Doctors are concerned about marijuana-related illnesses
Studies show that a rise in pot use since legalization, especially among young people, is leading to severe health and mental health problems. These include cannabis use disorder as well as a unique, unusual syndrome that causes severe intestinal distress and uncontrollable vomiting. Pregnant women are using marijuana in increasing numbers, despite warnings that it can cause low birth weight and slow cognitive development of their newborns through adolescence. Teens who vape marijuana often experience heightened mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Equally worrying, doctors report a steep increase in cases of severe psychotic episodes, caused by the high-potency pot that today can contain up to 90 percent THC (the psychoactive component of marijuana). In Colorado, for instance, doctors have reported a 24 percent increase in marijuana-related psychosis cases in the five years since legalization, while emergency room physicians in San Diego have also seen a staggering increase.
Market controls are essential
Even as the legalization movement grows more confident, there are still opportunities to curb commercialization. One measure would be to cap the THC level in cannabis products, which only Vermont and Connecticut have had the foresight to do. Another is to crack down on the mislabeling of products and demand more accurate information about dosages, possible side effects, and potential long-term harms. As the delineation of medical and recreational marijuana blurs—consumers in Washington D.C., for example, can now “self-certify” their need for medical pot rather than going to a physician. We need to clearly state that these products are not a panacea for any health condition, as many have been led to believe.
Safeguarding public health must be a priority
While nobody should be arrested for smoking a joint, the new market for marijuana requires tougher regulations. Young people, in particular, must understand the risks. Dispensaries should adhere to strict rules and regulations on marketing, packaging, and sales to underage consumers. State agencies in charge of overseeing the industry should not hesitate to take action when violations occur. If we can’t stop legalization, we can—and must—do everything to safeguard public health. As the delineation of medical and recreational marijuana blurs—consumers in Washington D.C., for example, can now “self-certify” their need for medical pot rather than going to a physician—we need to clearly state that these products are not a panacea for any health condition, as many have been led to believe.
