The past few weeks have brought distressing developments regarding youth marijuana exposure, alongside some promising legislative initiatives. From alarming increases in teen cannabis use to concerning product safety issues, these trends reinforce the critical importance of our mission to protect children and young adults from marijuana’s harmful effects.
🔬 Science Corner
A disturbing study published in JAMA Network Open reveals a significant rise in cannabis use among teenagers following the legalization of cannabis edibles and extracts in our neighboring nation to the north, Canada. The research found that cannabis products that often resemble youth-friendly treats increased accessibility and normalized use among teens. This has led to higher rates of dependency and potential mental health issues among adolescents. As quoted in the article, Parent-youth communication guides can help families have more informed conversations at home and navigate common misconceptions about edible use, Dr. Hai Nguyen said., Interestingly, Quebec, which banned such products, did NOT see similar increases, highlighting the effectiveness of stronger protective measures.
Further, a new comprehensive meta-analysis published in JAMA Pediatrics links marijuana use directly to poor fetal development, low birth weight, preterm delivery, and increased risk of perinatal mortality.
⚖️ Legislative Developments
Louisiana: In a key win, lawmakers recently passed House Bill 36, to bring consumable hemp under the Louisiana Drug Dealer Liability Act and create civil liability for selling hemp products to minors. In public testimony, Dr. Joseph Jones provided compelling evidence of the serious mental health risks saying, in part, “Cannabis exposure during this time alters your emotional regulation and increases the risk for anxiety, depression, impulsivity and ultimately psychosis later in life. These effects are not speculative, they’re not poorly researched, in fact, medical textbooks have been written about this.”
Ohio: Senate Bill 86, recently passed by the State Senate, similarly aims to better protect public safety in Ohio by regulating the sale of intoxicating hemp products. The legislation requires these products to be sold exclusively in licensed marijuana dispensaries to customers aged 21 and over.
Texas: Falling short of the complete THC ban proposed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a Texas House panel has advanced Senate Bill 3 proposing child-resistant packaging, a minimum sales age of 21, and prohibiting sales within 1,000 feet of schools or areas frequented by children. We applaud all of these efforts to close the hemp loophole and better protect children and adolescents.
Pennsylvania: On the other side of the ledger, State Representatives Dan Frankel and Rick Krajewski have reintroduced legislation to legalize marijuana in Pennsylvania, While the bill includes THC limits and a few child safety measures, we remain concerned about the potential for increased youth access and appeal. One Chance will continue to monitor this legislation and advocate for robust protections for children and young people.
⚠️ What We’re Up Against
Meanwhile, a Pennsylvania college newspaper is reporting the rising dab-pen use among adolescents, posing severe risks to youth mental health. While overall marijuana and cigarette smoking has recently decreased, dab-pen usage has surged due to accessibility, affordability, and discreteness. These devices contain extremely concentrated THC levels that can lead to significant cognitive decline, increased anxiety, and depression in youth.
The developments outlined in this newsletter underscore the ongoing challenges we face in protecting young people from marijuana’s harmful effects. With your continued support and advocacy, we can work toward stronger safeguards and better education to keep our children safe.
