Non-Therapeutic Marijuana Use
Statement of the Vermont Public Health Association Concerning Non-Therapeutic Marijuana in Vermont
The Vermont Public Health Association (VtPHA) views the non-therapeutic use of marijuana as a public health issue and is concerned about its legalization. Marijuana is the most widely used illegal drug in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, Vermont has one of the highest prevalence rates for marijuana use in the nation, particularly among young adults. Twelve percent of those age 12 and older and nearly 30 percent of those between the ages of 18 and 25 reported using marijuana within the past month. Those under 21 years of age account for 20% of the marijuana use in Vermont. VtPHA is concerned about the legalization of non-therapeutic marijuana in Vermont based on the following public health considerations:
In response to these concerns and the lack of a clear public health benefit to legalization, VtPHA supports a public health approach in dealing with this issue, including:
If Vermont chooses to legalize non-therapeutic marijuana, the VtPHA strongly urges policy makers to consider mandating a comprehensive regulatory regime that would include:
About the associationVtPHA is a membership organization which facilitates collaboration among people who care about public health and are interested in protecting and promoting the health of Vermont residents.
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