Last updated : November 11, 2024
As marijuana becomes legalized in more states across the country, are you aware of the negative effects it is having? A recent report from Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) shared troubling results of increased youth marijuana use in legalized states.
Based on state-level data released from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, there have been significant increases in youth marijuana consumption in states where marijuana is legalized. The data also found that mental illness indicators have also worsened among young people (aged 12-17).
These statistics are concerning because these numbers will only continue to rise across the country as more and more states legalize recreational marijuana.
According to Dr. Kevin Sabet, president of Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), “Today’s data further cements the need to hit pause on the rush to expand the commercialization of marijuana. We call on state lawmakers across the nation to halt all efforts to legalize marijuana and we urge Congress to pass a bill to streamline the process for research on the potential health & safety impacts of marijuana. With the year over year increases in use, we cannot afford to continue this misguided approach to drug policy – an approach that puts profits over our youth.”
While youth marijuana consumption is extremely concerning, the impacts of marijuana’s consumption on one’s mental health is equally concerning. As more states choose to legalize recreational marijuana, it becomes more accessible for younger children. This is troubling that the younger generation could become more dependent on using marijuana and continue that dependence as they enter the workforce at age 18.
Legalized marijuana poses workforce risks to people of all ages, too. With the increases in recreational marijuana legalization across the country and significant increases of THC in today’s pot, marijuana has become an increased safety hazard if we think about people in safety-sensitive jobs being under the influence and impaired.
As it is USA Mobile Drug Testing of Northeast Ohio’s mission to provide companies with drug-free workplace policies, we will continue to keep you informed of important data as it is released. Implementing proper drug testing policies are especially important as all drugs become more accessible. To establish a drug free workplace policy in your business, please contact us here.
