NY Cannabis Legalization Backlash: Teen Poisoning Cases Skyrocket – Is Legal Weed to Blame?

New York’s decision to legalize recreational cannabis has sparked a heated debate, especially concerning its impact on teenagers. While proponents tout potential economic benefits and individual freedoms, a concerning trend has emerged: a significant rise in teen cannabis poisoning cases. Is legal weed to blame, or are there other factors at play? This blog post delves into the data, explores the potential causes, and offers advice on how to protect our youth.

A Concerning Trend: Skyrocketing Teen Poisoning Cases

Recent data paints a worrying picture. According to a New York Times report, incidents of reported cannabis overdoses among children rose dramatically from about 930 cases in 2009 to more than 22,000 in 2024. More than 75 percent of all poisonings reported in 2024 involved children or teenagers. This surge raises serious questions about the accessibility and safety of cannabis products for young people in the wake of legalization.

In New York City, cannabis-related primary diagnoses more than doubled among residents ages 13 to 17 from 111.0 per 100,00 residents in 2021 to 228.7 per 100,000 residents in 2023.

Is Legalization the Root Cause?

While it’s tempting to draw a direct line between legalization and increased teen poisonings, the reality is more complex. Several factors could be contributing to this alarming trend:

Increased Availability: Legalization has undoubtedly made cannabis products more readily available. With dispensaries popping up across the state, access for adults has increased, which, in turn, can lead to easier access for teens, whether intentional or accidental.
Enticing Edibles: A significant concern is the proliferation of cannabis edibles, which often mimic popular candies and snacks. These products are particularly appealing to children and teens, who may not understand the risks associated with consuming them. Dr. Stephen Sandelich, a pediatric emergency physician at Penn State, notes, “We’re seeing a lot of accidental overdoses just because of the packaging.”
Higher Potency: Modern cannabis products, especially edibles and concentrates, often contain significantly higher levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) than the cannabis of previous generations. This increased potency can lead to more severe and unpredictable reactions, especially in inexperienced users.
Lack of Awareness: Despite legalization, many parents and teens may still lack adequate knowledge about the potential risks of cannabis use, proper storage, and recognizing the signs of poisoning.
Unsafe Storage: Cannabis products that are not properly stored can easily fall into the hands of children.

Understanding Cannabis Poisoning in Teens

Cannabis poisoning, also known as acute marijuana intoxication or cannabinoid poisoning, occurs when a person consumes too much cannabis at one time, leading to adverse effects.

Signs and Symptoms:

The symptoms of cannabis poisoning can vary depending on the amount consumed, the potency of the product, and the individual’s tolerance. Common signs and symptoms include:

Problems walking or sitting
Difficulty breathing
Confusion
Anxiety or paranoia
Panic
Fast heart rate or high blood pressure
Hallucinations or delusions
Nausea or vomiting
Unresponsiveness
Slurred speech
Sleepiness
Seizures (in rare cases)

It’s important to note that children are more susceptible to cannabis poisoning due to their smaller size and developing systems.

Legal Ramifications and Penalties

While possession of small amounts of cannabis is legal for adults 21 and over in New York, there are still legal consequences associated with underage possession and distribution.

Underage Possession: It is illegal under state law for people younger than 21 years old to possess, sell, or use any amount of cannabis.
Sale to Minors: Selling any amount of concentrated cannabis by a person 21 years old or more to a person 17 years old or younger is a class B Felony, subject to no more than 25 years imprisonment and a fine not to exceed $30,000.
Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and can result in serious penalties, including license suspension, fines, and even jail time.

Protecting Our Youth: Advice and Recommendations

Given the rising rates of teen cannabis poisoning, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect our youth:

Education is Key: Open and honest conversations with teenagers about the risks of cannabis use are essential. Provide them with accurate information about the potential short- and long-term effects, including the risks of addiction, mental health problems, and impaired cognitive development.
Safe Storage: If you choose to use cannabis products, store them securely out of reach of children and teens, preferably in a locked cabinet or container.
Read Labels Carefully: Pay close attention to the potency and dosage information on cannabis products, especially edibles. Be aware that edibles can take longer to take effect, leading to overconsumption.
Advocate for Change: Support policies and regulations that prioritize youth safety, such as limiting the potency of edibles, restricting marketing that appeals to children, and requiring child-resistant packaging.
Seek Help When Needed: If you suspect that a teen has consumed too much cannabis, seek immediate medical attention. Call the Poison Control Center hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or 9-1-1 if it’s an emergency.

The Path Forward

The legalization of cannabis in New York presents both opportunities and challenges. While the state aims to generate revenue and address social justice issues, it must also prioritize the health and safety of its young people. By understanding the risks, implementing effective safeguards, and fostering open communication, we can work towards a future where teens are protected from the potential harms of cannabis.

If you or someone you know has been injured or harmed due to cannabis use, it is important to seek legal counsel from a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights and options.