Public Act 23-79 Requires Updated Health Warning Labels for Marijuana, Especially High-Potency THC-Laced Products
(HARTFORD, CT) – Dr. Kevin Sabet, President of Smart Approaches to Marijuana Action (SAM Action) and a former drug policy advisor to Presidents Obama, Bush and Clinton, released the following statement in response to Governor Ned Lamont’s signing of Connecticut Public Act 23-79 (HB 6699), which requires the placement of warning labels regarding the negative mental and physical health impacts of today’s high-potency THC products:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2023Media Contact: Bob Driscoll
bob@learnaboutsam.org
“Today’s commercial pot products––laced with THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana––are increasingly associated with depression, suicidality, IQ loss, psychosis and schizophrenia, especially for young people. It’s good to see Connecticut now understands these serious risks and is willing to at least force transparency on the pot industry’s products.
“Big Marijuana has worked overtime to create the perception that these drugs are safe and even ‘recreational,’ but the reality is they come with the potential for very dangerous outcomes for users, and for that reason continue to be federally illegal and lack any FDA approvals for consumption.
“Connecticut has confirmed the industry’s spin is a lie. Alongside our affiliate organization in Connecticut we worked hard to advance this legislation because it combats the industry’s false narratives and prioritizes the science and data around the consequences of THC use. While warning labels alone won’t stem the rising tide of THC addiction, but it is a step in the right direction to protect consumers.”