Teen cannabis poisoning cases have surged since New York legalized it.

Teen Marijuana Use Surges in New York

After several years of decline, teenage marijuana use in New York is on the rise, according to recent statistics, which have become evident just three years post-legalization in 2021.

A study indicates that nearly 20% of individuals under 21 in the state report using cannabis. This report, released by Smart Approaches to Marijuana, was published on Thursday.

Data from the National Poison Data System highlighted in the report shows a significant surge in marijuana intoxication cases among New Yorkers under 19. Specifically, these cases increased by 56%, rising from 649 in 2021 to 1,104 in 2023.

Alarmingly, 95% of these poisoning incidents among teenagers involved edible products.

These troubling figures sharply contrast with the assertions made by legalization advocates who suggested that it would enhance community safety.

Kevin Sabet, president of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, stated, “The rate of young people frequently using marijuana has reached unprecedented levels, and the hospitalizations related to edible poisoning are also at an all-time high. Our lawmakers don’t appear to have a plan.”

Sabet’s organization pushes for “common sense” regulations, which include requiring warning labels, limiting the quantity of edible products sold, and providing clear information regarding THC content.

“The THC levels are through the roof. This isn’t the marijuana from Woodstock days. The potency today far exceeds what we used to see. Our advancements in cultivation techniques have led to this increased potency,” Sabet noted.

It’s worth mentioning that the legalization of marijuana hasn’t eliminated unlicensed cannabis operations. Despite state efforts to address the issues, many cannabis sellers continue to operate outside the law.

Current estimates suggest that there are around 275 licensed dispensaries, a sharp decline from approximately 3,000 in 2024.

“There’s no action being taken to resolve this,” lamented Kathleen Kelly, who tragically lost her 17-year-old son, Nico, in 2023 after he used a potent joint purchased from an unlicensed shop.