Addiction specialists are sounding the alarm over the increasing use of high-potency cannabis among Oregon’s youth, highlighting significant mental health risks associated with its consumption. Experts, including child psychiatrist David Rettew, presented their concerns during a recent hearing of the state’s Senate Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health. They urged state officials to implement policies aimed at reducing underage cannabis use.
Rettew, who serves as the medical director for Lane County Behavioral Health, emphasized that while cannabis is not the most dangerous substance available, it poses particular threats to adolescents. He pointed out the stark contrast between the perceived and actual risks of cannabis use. Many young people are unaware of the potential dangers, as signified by the green crosses commonly displayed in cannabis retail outlets, which contribute to a misleading perception of safety.
According to the Oregon Student Health Survey, 32% of eighth graders and 45% of eleventh graders believe that regular cannabis use poses little to no risk. This lack of awareness is troubling because approximately 90% of individuals with substance use disorders started using substances as youths. Wes Rivers, a policy analyst from the state’s Alcohol and Drug Policy Committee, noted that many young people engage in substance use while at school.
Despite state laws mandating that public schools must adopt effective substance use prevention programs, a study revealed that 60% of Oregon schools do not utilize evidence-based curricula. Senator Lisa Reynolds, a pediatrician and chair of the committee, stressed the need for preventive measures to address cannabis use among youth. She stated, ‘We need to stop minting new people who have addictions.’
High levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—the psychoactive component in cannabis—are a concern, especially as THC concentrations in products have surged from an average of 4-7% in past decades to levels exceeding 25-35% today. Rettew pointed to research linking heavy cannabis use in youth to an increased risk of mental health disorders, including schizophrenia. A report from the National Academy of Sciences indicates that early and heavy exposure to cannabis can trigger psychotic episodes in vulnerable individuals.
The experts at the hearing highlighted the need for improved educational outreach to both youths and their parents. Paul Bryant, executive director of Madrona Recovery, noted that parental involvement can significantly reduce youth substance use. He urged the importance of communicating clear messages to children about the risks of cannabis.
Concerns were also raised about the marketing tactics used by the cannabis industry, which often target younger audiences with appealing flavors and vibrant packaging. Lee Stewart, a prevention advocate, warned that cannabis products resembling candies and flavored vapes are designed to attract children.
Since the legalization of cannabis in Oregon in 2014, adults aged 21 and over can purchase a wide variety of cannabis products. However, the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) has reported that many hemp products sold in the state exceed legal THC limits, lack appropriate labeling, and often do not have adequate age verification processes.
Experts like David Jernigan from Boston University School of Public Health urged lawmakers to take lessons from the alcohol and tobacco industries to prevent similar pitfalls in cannabis regulation. He recommended policies to restrict marketing to minors, impose higher taxes on high-potency products, and possibly ban edibles and beverages altogether. Jernigan suggested that if such products are not banned, sales should be prohibited within 1,500 feet of schools.
The recent discussions in Oregon indicate a growing recognition of the need for a balanced approach to cannabis regulation, one that prioritizes the health and safety of youth while still allowing for adult access to cannabis products. As the state prepares to release a new substance use plan next year, the insights from this hearing may guide future policies aimed at protecting young residents from the potential dangers of cannabis.
English 
Spanish 
German 
Czech