Health officials push for cannabis education to protect youth

In a recent meeting of the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors, officials discussed a new funding request aimed at expanding cannabis education in schools across the county. The proposal seeks approximately $165,000 annually, totaling around $330,000 over a two-year contract, to enhance programs focused on the negative health impacts of cannabis use among youth.

The report presented emphasized the significant risks associated with cannabis consumption for adolescents, particularly its effects on brain development, mental health, and learning potential. Research indicates that youth cannabis use can lead to early onset psychosis and cognitive impairments, raising concerns about the normalization of cannabis and its perceived safety among young people.

Supervisors expressed a desire to leverage existing tobacco control policies to create effective interventions for cannabis prevention. They highlighted the need for a robust public health message that resonates with youth and their families, emphasizing the long-term consequences of cannabis use.

Additionally, discussions touched on the loopholes in medical marijuana access for individuals aged 18 to 20, particularly concerning online consultations that may lack thorough medical oversight. Supervisors raised concerns about the potential for abuse in this demographic and the need for data collection to better understand the implications of medical cannabis use among young adults.

The meeting underscored a growing recognition of the challenges posed by cannabis legalization, particularly in light of increased usage rates among youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials called for a collaborative effort to monitor and address these trends, focusing on vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by substance use.

The board is expected to vote on the funding request and the continuation of the cannabis education program in the coming weeks, as part of a broader strategy to safeguard youth health in the community.