No Serious Consequences of Legalization in the State

October 25,2017 Colorado

Recently, Colorado’s CMO of Department of Health, Dr. Larry Wolk gave an interview to Canadian radio show about its experience in that state that has allowed the adult-use of cannabis. The show is of great importance for Canadians since they are going to witness the legalized adult-use of marijuana from summer 2018.

Following is the summary of this interview which is very informative on the issue of cannabis legalization. It has been edited for the purpose of easier comprehension.

Host: What have you witnessed since the legalization of recreational marijuana?

Dr. Wolk: There is no significant development following the legalization. As of yet, there is no evident change in the number of people consuming marijuana contrary to the perception that with legalization, the number of users will soar. People also might be oblivious of the fact that even before legalization, nearly 25% of adults in the state were consuming cannabis on a usual basis.

Host: What were your reservations when the legalization of recreational marijuana taking place?

Dr.Wolk: The major concern was that this development would make an easier access to younger population and they might abuse its consumption. However, it hasn’t happened yet.

Host: What is the legal age set in Colorado for cannabis use?

Colorado Flag with Marijuana – Image powered by Lotuscannabis.com

Dr. Wolk: For medical use, it is 18 and for recreational consumption, it’s 21.

Host: What should be the right age to consume marijuana?

Dr.Wolk: Biologically, 25 should be the right age to consume cannabis. But on a practical note, 21 is the suitable age. However,  19 would be slightly young, but if it can be a drinking age then it should make a case to align cannabis and drinking age.

Host: Is it a good idea to sell marijuana in liquor establishments?

Dr. Wolk: I am not in support of this idea. The simultaneous use of two intoxicants will result in a greater impairment of senses.

What is the situation of DUI after legalization?

Dr.Wolk: In short, cases of DUI hasn’t experienced hike after the legalization in Colorado. There has been increase in cases of positive blood tests for cannabis consumption in drivers involved in serious car accidents. However, blood tests are not good indicator of impairment. Secondly, police protocol is set to first test for alcohol and if it comes positive, they stop testing. Therefore, it is difficult to say how much DUI cases have the share of marijuana consumption.

Dr. Larry Wolk – Image powered by Atinitonews.com

Host: How tricky is implementing cannabis laws?

Dr. Wolk: Enforcing cannabis laws is a tough job. Even though public consumption is not allowed in the state but still it is being consumed in such spaces. It gets even trickier if someone is consuming it through e-cigarettes or edibles.

Host: Is cannabis awareness and education is important?    

Dr. Wolf: It is extremely important. These awareness campaigns are important in educating adults about the laws and how to keep cannabis away from underage population.

Host: Is there any check on whether legalizing marijuana is leading to prevalent uses of hard drugs?

Dr. Wolf: There is a nationwide increase in heroin-related deaths but it’s not clear whether it is linked somewhere to the legalization of marijuana. The connection of legalization with the consumption of hard drugs is yet to be found.

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