Marijuana has a changing legal landscape that can affect any user. Here are some things to know about marijuana use in the United States.
How Many Americans Have Used Marijuana?
According to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 48% of Americans admitted that they have ever used cannabis. However, only 16% of the adults surveyed admitted that they had used marijuana in the past year. The National Institute on Drug Abuse calls marijuana the most commonly used psychotropic drug in the U.S. According to the NIDA, more men than women use marijuana.
Marijuana Use Is Legal in Some States
Although marijuana use is illegal federally, 11 states and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational use of marijuana. Thirty-three states, and D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands have approved medical marijuana usage in some fashion. Legal use of marijuana can be restricted. If you are using marijuana legally, you should make sure to understand any restrictions.
Public Opinion of Marijuana Use is Changing
In 2000, nearly 63% of Americans thought that marijuana use should be illegal. According to Pew Research, in September 2019, almost two-thirds of Americans favor legalized marijuana laws, a complete turnaround from two decades ago. In the 2019 survey, only 8% of people thought marijuana should not be legal.
Teen Marijuana Use Is on the Rise
According to the NIDA, teenage use of marijuana is increasing. Some of this is due to the popularity of vaping devices. At the same time, teenagers have a reduced perception of the risks of marijuana use. Teens are using more marijuana without understanding how it affects them.
Medical Emergencies Involving Marijuana Are Increasing
In Colorado, medical professionals are experiencing an increase in ER visits that involve marijuana. Doctors are concerned about edibles, but patients who experienced severe nausea or vomiting after smoking marijuana were another problem. Many people don’t know how much cannabis to ingest the first time they try brownies or gummies laced with cannabis. Some edibles have more cannabis than others, plus it can take longer for someone to feel the effect with an edible.
Marijuana Might Be Legal, But You Can Still Get in Legal Trouble
If you are found driving under the influence of marijuana, you could face serious consequences. It’s better to talk to an attorney who understands drug laws if you are facing legal problems involving marijuana. Make an appointment with a lawyer, like a drug lawyer in Rockville, MD from the Law Office of Daniel J. Wright, today.