Researchers find no increase in youth cannabis consumption in Washington

A group of Washington state cannabis experts found youth consumption of cannabis and cannabis-abuse treatment did not increase after the state’s legalization of social cannabis.

Under the state’s cannabis laws, the Washington State Institute for Public Policy is required to conduct analyses of legalization on issues ranging from drugged-driving, prenatal use, and youth consumption of cannabis.

Adam Darnell, the state legislature’s lead researcher, said there is little evidence which showed legalization could cause a rise in the youth consumption of cannabis, but found adults consumed more cannabis in areas with higher per capita sales.

The report was released shortly after Attorney General Jeff Sessions accused Washington state of encouraging product diversion, drugged driving and youth consumption after social cannabis was legalized.