Commission On Marijuana Legalization: Public Hearing On Monday

by | Apr 13, 2018 | Makin ’It Happen Together | 0 comments

On Monday, April 16, 2018 at 9:00 AM, the Commission to Study the Legalization of Marijuana in New Hampshire will host a public hearing to hear perspectives from people across the state on the legalization and commercialization of marijuana. The Commission needs to hear from people like you who understand the public health risks of legalization and commercialization in New Hampshire!

Makin’ It Happen is very concerned about the impact of the legalization and commercialization of marijuana on the youth of NH. 

Rates of marijuana use among New Hampshire adolescents and young adults are significantly higher compared to the rest of the United States. In state-funded treatment programs, far more 12 to 17 year olds seek treatment for marijuana use than for any other drugs combined, including alcohol. In 2012, of the 12 to 17 year olds who entered state-funded treatment programs, 80% reported they were seeking treatment for marijuana dependence.

The research is clear. Adolescence and young adulthood are critical times for the physical development of the brain and central nervous system. Because changes are rapidly occurring within the body, the effects of marijuana can have long term health consequences for adolescents once they reach adulthood.

Contrary to popular myth and misconception, regular marijuana use also carries risk of addiction. National research indicates that of those who try marijuana, 1 in 6 will become addicted. In teenagers, marijuana use can actually change the developing brain structure in areas dealing with memory and problem solving that can effect cognition and academinc performance. In addition, marijuana may lead to the use of other drugs.  (http://drugfreenh.org/images/Marijuana_Issue_Brief_1.15.14.pdf)

It is for these reasons that we, as a prevention coalition for resilient youth, strongly OPPOSE the legalization and commercialization of marijuana.

Monday’s hearing will be held in Rooms 202-204 of the Legislative Office Building at 33 N State Street in Concord, NH.  Please reach out to Sarah Ward at [email protected] with questions.