Ornella Quinn advocates for Senate Bill 94 to ban marijuana billboards in Massachusetts

During a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy, advocates and parents voiced strong concerns about the impact of marijuana advertising on youth in Massachusetts. Central to the discussion was Senate Bill 94, which aims to prohibit billboard advertising for recreational marijuana.

Ornella Quinn, a parent and public health advocate from Berlin, emphasized the potential dangers of marijuana exposure for adolescents. She highlighted research indicating that adolescents who frequently see marijuana billboards are significantly more likely to develop cannabis use disorders. Quinn pointed out that while marijuana is legal for adults, it poses serious health risks for young people, including increased chances of depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments.

Quinn urged lawmakers to take action, stating, “We need your help preventing adolescents in Massachusetts from being harmed by marijuana in the future.” She argued that the current regulations, which rely on an assumption that 85% of billboard viewers are adults, are difficult to enforce and do not adequately protect youth from harmful advertising.

The meeting underscored a growing concern among parents and public health advocates about the influence of marijuana marketing on young people. Advocates called for a regulatory framework that prioritizes public health and prevents commercial interests from targeting vulnerable populations. As the committee considers Senate Bill 94, the voices of concerned parents and health advocates highlight the urgent need for protective measures in the evolving landscape of cannabis policy in Massachusetts.