Legalization of Recreational Marijuana Use in Washington & Colorado: Opportunities, Challenges and Responsibilities for Prevention Science

The aim of this round table is to engage researchers, policymakers, and funders in active dialogue about the role prevention science can and should play in the evolving social and legal environment created by the legalization of recreational marijuana use (RMU). The changes in Washington and Colorado polices represents the culmination of evolving social norms regarding marijuana decriminalization. Speculation exists regarding the impact this new landscape will have on general public health and more specifically youth substance use. Research and theory suggests a positive association between favorable substance use attitudes and substance use. However, the new RMU policies represent unknown territory and prevention science can help lead the way forward. As such, there is a critical need for policymakers and researchers to work together to monitor and understand the impact of legalization on use and abuse in WA and CO, as they will likely inform debates in other states across the country.

The legalization of RMU presents both opportunities and challenges. In particular, great responsibility is placed on the shoulders of prevention scientists, whose primary goal is to translate basic science into programs and policies aimed at improving public health. This round table brings together two researchers from WA (both consultants to the state regarding research and prevention issues for RMU legalization), two researchers from CO (one who has conducted research on drugged driving and one who is well versed in the effects of marijuana use on brain development), and a policymaker from WA Division on Behavioral Health and Recovery to offer a diverse set of viewpoints and experiences related to the intersection of prevention science and RMU policy.

By including representatives from both states, we will be able to compare and contrast the implications for research and prevention across the states’ new RMU policies. For example, both states have implemented excise taxes on the sale of RMU which vary by amount (WA tax is higher than CO) and application (the point of transaction where the tax is levied differs). The states also differ in the use and distribution of tax revenues across state agencies; particularly relevant for our discussion are the differences in how revenues will be used to monitor and evaluate the impact of RMU on public health, and to fund prevention and treatment services related to use and abuse.

The chair of the roundtable will begin with a 5-minute overview of the statewide policies and 5-minute introductions by each discussant, including the unique perspective they offer. The remaining hour will be used for discussion with the audience regarding the key challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities for prevention science.