Marijuana Use Among Teens Declines In Washington State – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

Washington State’s most populous county has witnessed a decline in marijuana use among teenagers since the legalization of cannabis for adults, as revealed by a recent federal study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The study, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, highlights a significant decrease in the prevalence of current and frequent marijuana use among students in grades 8, 10, and 12 between 2008 and 2021.

The findings of the study shed light on the impact of adult-use cannabis legalization on youth consumption patterns. According to the report, the legalization of adult-use cannabis through a voter initiative in November 2012 in Washington State seems to have contributed to the decline in current and frequent marijuana use among teens in King County.

Researchers suggest that the introduction of legalization, along with associated regulations and age controls, may have made it more challenging for teenagers to access marijuana. The implementation of strict regulations and age restrictions likely played a role in limiting youth exposure and availability of cannabis products. These measures help ensure that only adults of legal age can purchase and consume cannabis.

Furthermore, the study also acknowledges that the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced more recent declines in teen marijuana use. The pandemic and associated restrictions may have led to reduced social interactions, including…