Some fears about cannabis legalization are unfounded, according to new data

The renowned and reputable Washington Post publishes the results of two studies on cannabis in its pages. These two studies show that 12- to 17-year-olds use less cannabis in states where it has been legalized and that the rate of traffic accidents has not increased as a result of the various forms of legalization.

Opponents of cannabis legalization argue that often puts forward two arguments : Easier access to cannabis for young people and road safety. Two new studies published this month show that these concerns are not necessarily justified.

First of all, a federal study A study conducted by the «National Survey on Drug Use and Health» shows that the increase in use primarily affects young adults and seniors. In contrast, the rate of cannabis use among young people has declined over the past two years. In Colorado, it fell from 20.81% before legalization to 18.35% after cannabis became legally available for sale. Cannabis use, however, has increased in all other age groups.

Fewer traffic accidents because there is less drunk driving

The Washington Post also publishes a study conducted by l’American Journal of Public Health. The study shows that states with cannabis dispensaries have seen a decrease in their traffic fatality rates. Silvia Martins, the author of the study, told the Washington Post: «We found that in states with laws regulating cannabis, drivers are less likely to drive while under the influence of alcohol.»

These figures should be viewed in context. Colorado relaunched last week, a series of studies, including one focused exclusively on the effects of cannabis while driving.  Information, research, and findings are multiplying as cannabis becomes more widely accepted. Be careful, though—cannabis is still a drug, legal in some parts of the world, and short-term studies may overlook longer-term trends.

Théo Caillart