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By rdNewsNow/CHAT News Staff

POLITICS

Alberta to explore impacts of cannabis on youth

May 30, 2024 | 11:22 AM

Alberta’s government says it is working with drug policy experts, doctors and professors to examine the impacts of cannabis on youth 25 and under with the data that’s become available since its legalization.

The Alberta government said Thursday it will provide a one-time grant of $280,000 to conduct a review of the available data and evidence on cannabis’s impact on youth.

Provincial officials said evidence collected could inform future policy changes in Alberta and recommend policy changes to ensure children and youth are protected from the harms of cannabis.

“We owe it to young Albertans and their families to make sure we fully understand the effects of legal cannabis,” mental health and addiction minister Dan Williams said in a statement.

We’re proud to bring together this group of respected health experts to provide insight and advice as we continue to navigate this evolving area of health care,” he added.

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The investigation is expected to be completed by summer this year.

Governmente officials say experts from the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, Dalhousie University, Harvard Medical School, and the University of Birmingham will be working on the project and will report to Minister Williams.

Cannabis was legalized more than five years ago under federal legislation, making it more accessible to the public for non-medical and recreational use, beginning at age 18.

Officials point out that cannabis edibles, including gummies and candies, which are known to be more appealing to youth and young adults, were also legalized in three provinces including British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta.