The impact of cannabis legalization and rescheduling on youth and adolescents is a critical public health consideration. Concerns center around the potential for increased access and use among young people, which could have implications for brain development, cognitive functioning, and mental health.
Research indicates that cannabis use during adolescence can have long-term effects on brain development and increase the risk of certain mental health issues. As such, preventing underage access to cannabis is a key concern in discussions about rescheduling and legalization.
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides resources and position statements on the impact of cannabis use in adolescents, which can be accessed at AAP.org.
