Canadian Government Legalizes Marijuana

On October 17, 2018, the Federal Government of Canada legalized cannabis. At best, this is a national experiment and controversial legislation. Clearly, the tax profits available to the Canadian government are enormous,  and the vast numbers of businesses devoted to the production, distribution and sales of marijuana seem boundless.  And, the question of health to adults and youth using cannabis continues to be in dispute.

The proliferation of businesses engaged in the promotion and marketing are restricted from using techniques and procedures to attract younger demographics, however, opponents contend this is a slippery slope in which  informational materials and brand marketing are sending a message to Canadians that marijuana is acceptable, perhaps confusing those who might otherwise have decided to not smoke cigarettes. And, there still remains doubt as to whether and to what extent one’s ability to safely operate equipment, machinery, and automobiles may be impaired.

While there are unanswered questions regarding the short and long term consequences of using marijuana,  many in the health profession continue to develop campaigns to alert the public as to the health and other risks associated with cannabis. Undoubtedly, this is a topic under consideration now and in the future by the representatives in the United States Government, and other countries.