The Board of Health meeting held on August 11, 2025, in Franklin, Wisconsin, focused on the pressing issue of youth substance misuse, particularly concerning Delta 8 THC products. The meeting began with a discussion led by a coalition member who highlighted the increasing prevalence of substance misuse among youth in the community.

The speaker presented recent incidents that underscore the dangers associated with Delta 8 THC, a psychoactive substance that has gained popularity due to its legal status. Notably, a case was mentioned where a pizzeria inadvertently used THC oil, leading to several customers consuming the substance unknowingly. Additionally, a four-year-old was hospitalized after accidentally ingesting Delta 8 gummies, which were sold without age restrictions, raising concerns about the lack of regulatory oversight in Wisconsin.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of the 2019 Farm Bill, which redefined hemp and allowed Delta 8 THC to be sold with minimal restrictions. This has resulted in a surge of THC products available in local gas stations and vape shops, contributing to an increase in accidental poisonings among children. The statistics presented indicated that marijuana use among youth in Wisconsin has risen, with 28% of students reporting lifetime use in 2023.

The Board of Health acknowledged the urgent need for community discussions and preventive measures to address these issues. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the impact of Delta 8 THC on youth and explore potential regulatory actions to enhance safety and awareness in the community.