The Lynnwood City Council held a public hearing on September 8, 2025, addressing concerns surrounding cannabis use and its potential impacts on youth. The meeting began with a presentation by Galen Baton, who shared his personal experience regarding the addictive nature of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. Baton emphasized that approximately 30 percent of regular cannabis users may develop an addiction, particularly among individuals aged 25 and younger.

Baton recounted his son's struggle with addiction, highlighting the critical developmental stages of the brain that occur until the mid to late twenties. He argued that the endocannabinoid system, which THC affects, plays a significant role in this maturation process. Baton urged the council to consider the implications of increasing retail cannabis stores in the area, warning that it perpetuates the misconception that cannabis is harmless.

The discussion underscored the ongoing debate about cannabis regulation and its effects on public health, particularly among adolescents and young adults. The council members listened attentively to Baton’s testimony, reflecting the community's concerns about the accessibility of cannabis and its potential risks.

As the meeting progressed, the council did not make any immediate decisions but acknowledged the importance of the topic and the need for further discussion on cannabis policies in Lynnwood. The council plans to continue evaluating the implications of cannabis retail expansion in future meetings, considering both public health and community perspectives.