In a world where the debate over marijuana legalization continues to ignite passionate discussions, new findings from the US Department of Health and Human Services have revealed a conclusion that may not come as a surprise to those in the cannabis industry. Contrary to the fears that legalizing marijuana might spike its use among teenagers, recent survey data reveals a decline in teen marijuana use over the past decade, a time frame when marijuana legalization spread across the United States.
Data From Latest Government Survey Data
Government survey data released by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) provides a look at teen marijuana use trends.
According to this data, the percentage of teenagers aged 12 to 17 who have tried marijuana has fallen by 18 percent from 2014 to 2023. Additionally, the percentage of teens who reported using marijuana in the past year has dropped by 15 percent, and current use has decreased by 19 percent.
These findings are particularly noteworthy because 2014 marked the start of state-level marijuana legalization, with Colorado and Washington leading the way by allowing the licensed sale of cannabis. As of today, 24 states have legalized marijuana for adults aged 21 and older, comprising more than half of the US population.
Commenting on the federal survey data, NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano stated, “Sensational claims that adult-use legalization laws are linked with greater marijuana use by teens are simply not backed by reliable data. These government findings ought to reassure lawmakers that cannabis access can be legally regulated in a manner that is safe, effective, and that does not inadvertently impact young people’s habits.”
What Other Studies Say About Marijuana Legalization and Youth Use
The NSDUH data is not an outlier. It aligns with findings from other reputable sources, including the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC has also reported steadily decreasing rates of marijuana use among adolescents, further debunking the myth that legalization leads to increased use among teens.
For example, a study published in the journal JAMA found no significant association between marijuana legalization and increased adolescent use. The study analyzed data from over 1.4 million high school students and concluded that there was no uptick in cannabis use following the passage of state laws allowing recreational marijuana.
One of the key takeaways from these findings is the role of effective regulation in mitigating potential risks associated with marijuana legalization. States that have legalized marijuana have also implemented stringent regulations to prevent underage access. These include age verification requirements, restrictions on advertising targeting minors, and educational campaigns aimed at preventing adolescent use.
By setting clear guidelines and enforcing them rigorously, states can create a controlled environment where marijuana is accessible to adults but remains out of reach for teenagers.
The latest government survey data provides a compelling narrative that challenges preconceived notions about marijuana legalization and its impact on teen use. With nearly a 20 percent decline in teen marijuana use over the past decade, the evidence suggests that legalizing marijuana at the state level does not lead to an increase in adolescent consumption.
These findings, supported by statements corroborated by other studies, underscore the importance of effective regulation and ongoing research. By creating a controlled environment and investing in education, states can ensure that marijuana legalization benefits society while minimizing potential risks.
