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Marijuana's Effect on Youth Position Statement

Whereas, on Nov. 13, 2014, the Interact for Health Public Policy Committee met and approved the following Marijuana’s Effect on Youth Position Statement:

The young brain is in a constant state of development from the prenatal period through childhood, adolescence and until approximately age 21. Use of marijuana before the age of 21 has been shown to have long-term negative effects on the brain.  This would include the effects on IQ, learning, memory and behavior.

In light of this evidence, Interact for Health believes that youth and young adults under age 21 should not have legal access to marijuana for recreational use. In communities that allow recreational use of marijuana, policies should protect youth from exposure to marketing, purchasing and use of marijuana.

Resolved, that the Interact for Health Public Policy Committee approves the above Marijuana’s Effect on Youth Position Statement.