The Potential Impact of Medicinal

Marijuana in Kentucky

APPALACHIA HIGH INTENSITY DRUG TRAFFICKING AREA

400 SOUTH MAIN STREET, FLOOR 3

LONDON, KENTUCKY 40741

(606) 877-2100

www.ahidta.org

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents ........................................................................................................... 2

Acknowledgments .......................................................................................................... 3

Purpose .......................................................................................................................... 4

Executive Summary ........................................................................................................ 5

Section 1: Marijuana Usage ............................................................................................ 6

Section 2: Driving Under the Influence of Drugs ............................................................ 11

Section 3: Socio-Economic Impact ................................................................................ 16

Section 4: Environmental Considerations ...................................................................... 19

Section 5: Medicinal Marijuana Alternatives .................................................................. 23

Section 6: Conclusion ................................................................................................... 25

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Acknowledgments

Thank you to all of the individuals, agencies, and institutions who assisted in providing

information and material pertaining to this report. It was through our collaborative efforts that this

report was able to be completed.

A special thank you goes out to the following:

● Appalachia HIDTA Prevention and Education Officers

● Northwest HIDTA

● Operation UNITE

● Rocky Mountain HIDTA

● The Kentucky State Police

● The Kentucky State Police Records Branch

● The AHIDTA Overdose Response Strategy

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Purpose

This report was created to inform the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (A-

HIDTA) Executive Board, and potential policy makers, of statistical trends pertaining to the

potential legalization of medicinal marijuana and how medicinal legalization will have an impact

on the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. This report was prepared by the A-HIDTA,

Investigative Support Center (ISC) as an informational product and is not an effort to thwart

current federal or state law or policy. Rather to identify and inform common statistical trend

analysis as presented.

A total of 31 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico have legalized

the use of medicinal marijuana12. Since legalization, many of these states have produced

statistical data centric to post-legalization areas of concern of marijuana usage within their

borders. The intent of this paper is to compare the similarities of pre-legalization data of

Kentucky, with pre and post-legalization data (where available) in order to provide insight into

the potential after effects of medicinal marijuana legalization in Kentucky.

This paper focuses on five areas of emphasis: Marijuana Usage, Drugged Driving

Statistics, Socio-Economic Impact, Environmental Considerations, Medicinal Marijuana

Alternatives. Comparative data from states that have already legalized the use of medicinal

marijuana will outline anticipatory areas of interest for future models relevant to this report. This

is the first report of its kind specific to the Commonwealth of Kentucky and will outline areas of

concern that are henceforth recommended to be monitored in any future medicinal marijuana

legislative considerations. The conclusion of this paper will provide an overall analytical

narrative describing future effects of medicinal marijuana on the citizens of the Commonwealth

of Kentucky if legalized.

The independent variable for this research is medicinal marijuana while the dependent

variables are societal impacts pre and post medicinal legalization. There is no controlled

variable for this research, however growing popularity for medicinal marijuana legalization has

placed a stronghold on Kentucky legislatures to make a decision sometime during the 2019

sessions. Marijuana has remained illegal in all forms under Kentucky law and is backed by

federal law under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA)3. This paper provides empirical

evidence and historical precedence as a means to inform legislatures.

1 National Conference of State Legislatures, “State Medical Marijuana Laws”, June 27, 2018. http://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx Accessed August 20, 2018. 2 Marijuana: used throughout to describe all forms of marijuana and more commonly used “marijuana”; term will deviate from intended if necessary throughout this paper. 3 Title II – The Controlled Substances Act, Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970.

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Executive Summary

During the past several years, medicinal marijuana legalization throughout the country

has significantly increased. Subsequently, states that have legalized medicinal marijuana

quickly feel the pressure to legalize marijuana recreationally. In doing so, states openly negate

critical steps the proven scientific research models associated with modern day medicines set

forth to protect users from adverse side effects. More so, with medicinal marijuana legalization,

states openly oppose federal law because marijuana is still illegal under the Controlled

Substances Act and classified as a Schedule I substance.

Despite medicinal marijuana’s growing popularity, one area that can’t be disputed is the

direct negative effects that marijuana has had on residents where marijuana is legal. This paper

will outline in detail that marijuana legalization has had a direct increase in overall marijuana

usage, both legally and illegally. Data contained within this paper will also prove that states have

experienced an increase in vehicular fatalities where marijuana is legal. Furthermore, this report

will provide an analytical insight on how cultivation has severe adverse effects on the

surrounding environment, all while scientifically proven and federally approved alternatives are

already on the market. Finally, this paper will compare national data, while simultaneously

including an insight into the current well-being of the Commonwealth, in order to provide an

informative insight to Kentucky law makers that may otherwise be overlooked.

While the popularity of medicinal marijuana continues to grow, law makers must take

into account the negative side effects associated with the legalization of marijuana and weigh

them against the overall risks to the citizens of the Commonwealth. By legalizing medicinal

marijuana, without taking into consideration the findings contained within this research paper,

and by circumventing proven scientific medicinal methodologies, legalization of any form could

be putting the citizens of the Commonwealth at risk of harm.

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Section 1 – Marijuana Usage

Findings

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA),

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), publishes results of their annual survey

in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)1. The NSDUH showed that in 2016,

an estimated 28.6 million Americans aged 12 and older were current illicit drug users. Meaning

that illicit drug users had used an illicit drug during the previous month of the survey interview.

Stated in another way, 1 in 10 individuals aged 12 or older in the United States used illicit drugs

in the past month. Furthermore, Americans ages 18 to 25 were the most prevalent users of illicit

drugs.

The NSDUH further depicted that marijuana was the most commonly used illicit drug. An

estimated 24 million Americans aged 12 and older had used marijuana in the month prior to the

survey. Not only was marijuana the most commonly used illicit drug, the NSDUH showed that

there were approximately twice as many users of marijuana then all other illicit drugs combined.

When compared to previous NSDUH results,

marijuana users from ages 18-25 has remained

the leading age group of marijuana users for

the past 15 years. In 2016, approximately 1 in 5

young adults (approximately 7.2 million

Americans) aged 18-25 were current users of

marijuana. The NSDUH also showed that

marijuana usage has increased to its highest

levels of use in the past 15 years, except for in

one age range, 12-17 year olds.

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In a concurrent study, data derived from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

also concluded that marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. NIDA

determined that approximately 24 million Americans aged 12 and older were users of marijuana

in 2017; accounting for approximately 8% of all Americans.

Surveys from the 2018 NIDA survey determined the percentage of marijuana users in young

adults to be the following:4

- 13.9% of 8th graders have used marijuana in their lifetime (10.5% within the past year)

- 32.6% of 10th graders have used marijuana (27.5% within the past year)

- 43.6% of 12th graders have used marijuana (35.9% within the past year)

One section of the SAMSHA NSDUH identifies illicit drug use estimates for 30 different

substances and mental health outcomes, by age group, for all 50 states and the District of

Columbia. The percentages provided are estimated ranges and do not reflect the exact number

due to the nature of the survey, but are the estimates for the use of marijuana in Kentucky in

2015.5

Age Range Estimated Usage Mean Average

- 12 years of age and older 12.71% - 13.85% 13.28%

- 12-17 years of age 11.76% - 13.30% 12.53%

- 18-25 years of age 23.74% - 28.74% 26.24%

- 26 and older 10.35% - 11.26% 10.8%

The NSDUH study also emphasizes that 25.98% - 29.08% of Kentuckians believe that there are

“Perceptions of Great Risk from Smoking Marijuana”.

Smoking Marijuana Alternatives

Electronic Cigarettes, or “E-cigarettes”, are devices that typically deliver nicotine,

flavorings, and other additives to users through an inhaled aerosol. They are a rapidly emerging

trend and are especially popular among youth and young adults. These devices are referred to

by a variety of names, including “e-cigs,” “e-hookahs,” “mods,” “vape pens,” “vapes,” and “tank

systems.” E-cigarettes can also be used to deliver other drugs besides nicotine, such as

marijuana.6

4 National Institute on Drug Abuse: Monitoring the Future Study: Trends in Prevalence of Various Drugs. https://www.drugabuse.gov/trends-statistics/monitoring-future/monitoring-future-study-trends-in-prevalence-various-drugs Accessed February 5, 2019. 5 SAMSHA. 2016-2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health National Maps of Prevalence Estimates, by State. Accessed February 5, 2019. 6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. E-Cigarettes and Young People: A Public Health Concern. https://www.cdc.gov/features/ecigarettes-young-people/index.html Accessed February 11, 2019.

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The NIDA survey also determined that vaping amongst young adults was consistent with

the percentage of marijuana users within the same age range.7 (See Section 1-Marijuana

Usage)

- 21.5% of 8th graders have participated in vaping

- 36.9% of 10th graders have participated in vaping

- 42.5% of 12th graders have participated in vaping

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published findings on the effects

of vaping amongst not only youths, but pregnant women and fetuses as well. The CDC states

that “the use of products containing nicotine in any form among youth, including in e-cigarettes,

is unsafe”.8

Marijuana doesn’t have the exact same negative effects as smoking cigarettes however,

most health experts still warn against smoking because the smoke can harm your lungs or

worsen respiratory issues that already may exist. Even though marijuana rarely contains

nicotine, marijuana smoke does contain harmful chemicals. These chemicals include: airway

irritants and tumor promoters containing carcinogens (which are cancer causing substances).9

A popular alternative method for smoking marijuana is by vaping. Vaping involves

inhaling a liquid vapor through a vaporizer or e-cigarette. This method has become more

popular in recent years being advertised as a “safer” way to smoke, but it comes with its own set

of risks. Research shows that vaporizers can release harmful chemicals into your system.

Certain chemicals, such as ammonia commonly found in vapes, can negatively interact with

your central nervous system. Other risks are present such as aggravating asthma or causing

bronchial spasms when vaping marijuana. The American Heart Association (AHA) has even

pushed for tougher regulations on selling e-cigarettes claiming that omitted vapors may contain

carcinogenic substances.

Second Hand Smoke

Electronic cigarettes don’t technically burn, therefore, there is no smoke. Many users

believe that since there is no smoke, this means that there is no second-hand smoke; and no

second-hand smoke means no health worries for the public who happens to be in the vicinity.

On the contrary, a study conducted by Wolfgang Schober of the Bavarian Health and Food

Safety Authority published findings of a “comprehensive inner and outer exposure assessment

of e-cigarette emissions” the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health entitled

Use of Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes) Impairs Indoor Air Quality and Increases FeNO

7 Ibed 8 CDC, E-Cigarette Use Among Youth and Young Adults: A Report if the Surgeon General Fact Sheet. https://e-cigarettes.surgeongeneral.gov/documents/2016_SGR_Fact_Sheet_508.pdf Accessed February 11, 2019. 9 Where There’s Smoke, Vaping, Marijuana, and COPD. https://www.healthline.com/health/marijuana-copd-vaping Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, DO. November 9, 2018.

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Levels of E-Cigarette Consumers.10 The study determined that e-cigarettes are not emission-

free and their pollutants could be of health concern for users via secondhand smokers.

When combing marijuana and electric cigarettes, or vaping, not only are the consumers

breathing in carcinogenic chemicals, the second hand smoke is directly effecting the people

around them. Facts pertaining to second hand exposure of marijuana smoke, to include the

vaping of marijuana, include but are not limited to the following:

- Particle concentrations from dabbing and vaporizing marijuana can create levels of

indoor air pollution similar to those seen in extreme air pollution events like wildfires and

severe industrial pollution. Exposure at these concentrations can cause cardiovascular

and respiratory disease.11

- People who are exposed to secondhand marijuana smoke can have detectable levels of

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in their blood and urine.12

- Marijuana can also be contaminated with mold, pesticides or other chemicals that may

be released in secondhand smoke.13

Marijuana Edibles

Edibles are food products infused with marijuana. Though smoking marijuana is the

most prevalent method of consumption, eating marijuana is quickly becoming a popular way to

consume the drug, both recreationally and medicinally. Marijuana edibles are more common in

states that have legalized recreational marijuana but are also prevalent in states that permit

medical marijuana use. Given the popularity in both medicinal and recreational uses, edibles

come with an extreme risk because there is a high potential for overdose from marijuana

edibles.14

The amount of THC is very difficult to measure in both inhalants and edible products.

The effects from smoking marijuana only takes minutes. However, edibles take between 1-3

hours to release because they are absorbed into the bloodstream through the liver. Because

this process takes longer, the user may end up consuming larger amounts of the drug while

thinking the drug isn't working. Additionally, if the user has other medications in his or her

10 Use of Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes) Impairs Indoor Air Quality and Increases FeNO Levels of E-

Cigarette Consumers. International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health Volume 217, Issue 6, July 2014, Pages 628-637. 11 Jaques, P. Measuring Aerosol Particle Emissions from Marijuana Vaporization and Dabbing. Proceedings of the 15th Meeting of the International Society for Indoor Air Quality and Climate. July 22-27, 2018. Philadelphia, PA. 12 Herrmann E. Non-smoker exposure to secondhand marijuana smoke II: Effect of room ventilation on the physiological, subjective, and behavioral/cognitive effects. Drug and Alcohol Dependence. June 2015. Pages 194-202. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25957157 13 University of California-Davis Researchers, research letter published online in the journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infection, A microbiome assessment of medical marijuana. April 2017 Volume 23, Issue 4, Pages 269–270 https://www.clinicalmicrobiologyandinfection.com/article/S1198-743X(16)30605-X/pdf 14 Get the Facts About Drugs: Just Think Twice. Drug Alert: Marijuana Edibles. https://www.justthinktwice.gov/article/drug-alert-marijuana-edibles Accessed February 11, 2019.

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system, their body may metabolize different amounts of THC, causing THC levels in the

bloodstream to dangerously increase as high as five-fold.

The negative effects of marijuana edibles have been documented for years. The

availability of marijuana edibles, due to their clandestine packaging, make the edibles very

dangerous to not only the users, but to young Americans as well. A study conducted by NIDA in

2014, found that “among 12th graders who used marijuana in the past year, 40% reported

having consumed it in edible form in medical marijuana states, versus 26% in non-medical

marijuana states.”15

To date, it is not uncommon to see headlines such as the following appear in the news as

marijuana usage becomes more popular amongst young persons and school-aged children.

- Middle-Schooler Faces Multiple Felonies After Giving Classmates Pot Gummies16

- Marijuana Legalization Means More Children Accidentally Consuming Pot Products,

Exposure Rose 148% Since 200617

- Children Getting Sick From Marijuana-Laced Gummies18

Analysis

It is assessed that since marijuana is the most commonly used drug in America, and that

Kentucky’s rate of use amongst 18-25 year olds is 3% higher than the national average, that

marijuana use amongst Kentucky citizens may become more prevalent if medical marijuana is

legalized in the Commonwealth. As users of marijuana are actively seeking clandestine

methods of consumption through vapes, E-cigarettes, and edibles, an influx of medicinal

marijuana into the Commonwealth may directly increase the overall use of marijuana throughout

the state. It is assessed that higher availability of legal marijuana distribution may lead to a black

market distribution. Furthermore, as marijuana exposure increases amongst young people and

school-aged children, it is probable that long term marijuana consumption beginning in middle

school and high school could increase marijuana dependency disorder and addiction rates.

15 National Institute on Drug Abuse. Monitoring the Future 2014 Overview. 16 Fox New Insider. December 3, 2018. https://insider.foxnews.com/2018/12/03/florida-students-hospitalized-after-eating-thc-laced-gummy-candies-school-boy-faces 17 International Business Times. June 8, 2015. https://www.ibtimes.com/marijuana-legalization-means-more-children-accidentally-consuming-pot-products-1956745 18 Boston News 25. May 20, 2015. https://www.boston25news.com/news/children-getting-sick-from-marijuanalaced-gummies/8742954

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Section 2 – Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID)

Findings

According to the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2016, 20.7

million people aged 16 or older drove under the influence of alcohol in the past year and 11.8

million drove under the influence of illicit drugs, to include marijuana. 19 The NSDUH found that

men are more likely to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol than women. The study

found that young adults aged 18 to 25 are more likely to drive after consuming drugs or alcohol

than adults 26 or older.20 Furthermore, after alcohol, marijuana is the most common drug found

during blood tests of drivers involved in crashes.21

Studies published in Public Health Reports journal have shown that drivers with THC in

their blood were roughly twice as likely to be responsible for a deadly crash, or be killed

themselves, as opposed to drivers who hadn't used drugs or alcohol.22 A 2011 survey of high

school students showed that, in the 2 weeks before the survey, 12% of high school seniors had

driven after using marijuana, compared to 9% who had driven after drinking alcohol.23

Additionally, approximately 17% of all young drivers that were surveyed had driven under the

influence of a drug other than alcohol at least once in the past year; further annotating that

marijuana was the most common drug used.24

The State of Colorado first legalized medicinal marijuana in 2000. From 2000-2012 the

state made several changes to its laws governing medicinal marijuana, however medicinal

marijuana remained legal until November 6, 2012 at which time recreational marijuana was

made legal. From 2006-2012 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA)

Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), along with the Colorado Department of

Transportation, collected data pertaining to traffic deaths involving a presence of marijuana.25

19 Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. Results from the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed Tables. Rockville (MD): SAMHSA; 2017. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-DetTabs-2016/NSDUH-DetTabs-2016.pdf Accessed February 12, 2019. 20 Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (CBHSQ). Behavioral Health Trends in the United States: Results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; 2015. HHS Publication No. SMA 15-4927, NSDUH Series H-50. 21 Teen Drivers: Get the Facts | Motor Vehicle Safety | CDC Injury Center. http://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/teen_drivers/teendrivers_factsheet.html. Published October 14, 2015. Accessed February 12, 2019. 22 Wilson FA, Stimpson JP, Pagán JA. Fatal crashes from drivers testing positive for drugs in the U.S., 1993-2010. Public Health Reports. 2014;129(4):342-350. 23 O’Malley PM, Johnston LD. Driving after drug or alcohol use by US high school seniors, 2001-2011. American Journal Public Health Reports. 2013;103(11):2027-2034. 24 Arria AM, Caldeira KM, Vincent KB, Garnier-Dykstra LM, O’Grady KE. Substance-related traffic-risk behaviors among college students. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2011;118(2-3):306-312. 25 The Legalization of Marijuana in Colorado: The Impact, Volume 5. September 2018. Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (RM-HIDTA).

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The data showed that during the medicinal marijuana legalization period, statewide

fatalities where the driver tested positive for marijuana increased by 223%. While during the

same time period, the total number of statewide fatalities went down by approximately 12%.1

The state of Colorado has seen a consistent and exponential growth in the number of

traffic deaths since the legalization of marijuana, both medicinally and recreationally. In 2017,

21.3% of statewide fatalities involved the driver testing positive for marijuana. Equating to a

154% increase from when recreational marijuana was legalized in 2012.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Total Statewide Fatalities

Fatalities with Drivers Testing Positive for Marijuana

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The American Automobile Association (AAA) Foundation for Traffic Safety examined

historical drug tests and fatal crashes among drivers in Washington following the state’s

December 2012 legalization of marijuana. The exam determined that one in six drivers involved

in fatal crashes had recently used marijuana.26

Peter Kissinger, President and CEO of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, stated

“the significant increase in fatal crashes involving marijuana is alarming.” Adding that

“Washington serves as an eye-opening case study for what other states may experience

with road safety after legalizing the drug.”27

Dave Carlson from AAA Idaho said, “Drivers who get behind the wheel while

impaired put themselves and others on the road at risk”.28 Whether the use of marijuana is

legal or not, all motorists should avoid driving while impaired. Just because a drug is legal does

not mean it is safe to use while operating a motor vehicle.

David Harkey, President of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and

Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), stated that “Impairment is impairment, whether it’s

alcohol or marijuana or prescription drugs. Any of those can affect your ability to drive a

motor vehicle. You shouldn’t be behind the wheel if you’re impaired by any substance.

That’s a message that I’m not sure is currently clearly conveyed.”

The National Academics of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine

Division concluded a comprehensive study entitled the Health Effects of Marijuana: An Evidence

Review and Research Agenda published in 2012. The study found that “There is substantial

evidence of a statistical association between use and increased risk of motor vehicle

crashes29” as related to injury or death. This study summarized evidence from 13 countries and

239,739 people; all of whom indicated that they had either used marijuana while driving, or in

enough time prior to driving, for effects to still persist while driving. Concluding that,

“marijuana usage prior to driving increases the risk of being involved in a motor vehicle

accident…by 20 to 30 percent”30

The Commonwealth of Kentucky does not currently maintain a record of arrests or

incidents in which operators of a motor vehicle are under the influence of marijuana. However,

states who have legalized marijuana do maintain these stats. The states have also revised their

laws, where applicable, to differentiate between arrests and incidents pertaining to alcohol, and

26 AAA Foundation. Fatal Road Crashes Involving Marijuana Double After State Legalizes Drug. https://www.oregon.aaa.com/2016/05/fatal-road-crashes-involving-marijuana-double-after-state-legalizes-drug/ Accessed September 19, 2018 27 Fatal Road Crashes Involving Marijuana Doubles After State Legalizes Drug. AAA News Room. May 10, 2016. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/05/fatal-road-crashes-involving-marijuana-double-state-legalizes-drug/ Accessed August 23, 2018. 28 Ibed 29 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine Division; Committee on the Health Effects of Marijuana: An Evidence Review and Research Agenda. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 9-3. January 12, 2017. 9-3. 30 Ibed

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arrests and incidents pertaining to marijuana. Although there is not a current Kentucky Revised

Statute (KRS) written in law that separates drugged driving and driving under the influence of

alcohol, KRS 189A.010 does include a catch-all provision, stating,

“Operating motor vehicle with alcohol concentration of or above 0.08, or above

0.02 for persons under age twenty-one, or while under the influence of alcohol, a

controlled substance, or other substance which impairs driving ability, is prohibited”.31

This verbiage is extremely important to Kentucky law enforcement officers since there is

currently no certifiable field test to determine a suspected substance (other than alcohol) in

which an operator of a motor vehicle may be under the influence of. The Commonwealth of

Kentucky instead empowers law enforcement officers to make arrests of persons suspected to

be under the influence of any substance, given the totality of the circumstances, and that the

officer must have “reasonable grounds to believe” that a violation of drugged driving laws has

occurred.

The Kentucky State Police Criminal Records Section maintains arrest records of all drug

arrests made in the Commonwealth. The report breaks down the number of citations per drug

offense separating each by county and by individual drug, then weighs the numbers against

each other providing the total number of citations by county and by drug for the entire state.

From 2014 through 2018 there were 110,603 drug related arrests. The most common drug

arrest over that time frame was for marijuana. Although the drug arrest statistics do not

differentiate between drugged driving arrests and non-driving arrests, the data shows that

marijuana related arrests are the leading drug arrest in the state.

31 Kentucky Revised Statutes. KRS Chapter 189A.

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Analysis

Statements from leaders in the automobile safety industry, to include the AAA and the

IIHS HLDI, have publicly expressed their concerns and disapproval of people operating a motor

vehicle with marijuana in their system. Their studies have found a rapid increase of drugged

driving where the operator tested positive for marijuana exponentially increased from the year

medicinal marijuana was legalized. Their studies also inferred that by introducing medicinal

marijuana to the market that the number of drugged driving incidents, where multiple drugs were

present in the driver’s system, were likely to increase.

The State of Colorado supports these findings by showing that from 2006-2012, during

the medicinal marijuana era, fatal car accidents where the driver tested positive for marijuana

increased 223%. After legalizing recreational marijuana in 2012, Colorado experienced an

additional increase of 154% where the drivers tested positive for marijuana. Additionally, the

2016 NSDUH study found that males, aged 18-25, were most likely to drive under the influence

of drugs or alcohol.

Therefore, is it assessed that if medicinal marijuana is made legal in Kentucky, then the

Commonwealth would experience a similar increase in fatal car crashes. It is further assessed

that the drivers of fatal car crashes may not only be under the influence of one substance, but

are most likely to be under the influence of two or more substances, to include the presence of

medicinal marijuana. Additionally, statistics show that males aged 18-25 are most likely to drive

under the influence of drugs or alcohol and are amongst the leading users of marijuana. It is

therefore assessed that this demographic is most likely to be involved in a fatal car crash due to

drugged driving should the Commonwealth legalize marijuana in any form.

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Section 3 – Socio-Economic Impact

Findings

The Centennial Institute, located at Colorado Christian University, Lakewood CO, is a “think

tank” focused on strengthening America’s future aimed at enhancing public understanding of

important issues in today’s society. The Centennial Institute was commissioned in part to study

and better understand the economic and social costs of legalized marijuana. Although their

commissioning is focused on legalized marijuana (to include recreational marijuana) within

Colorado, their findings outline substantial consequences associated with the legalization of

marijuana as a whole.

Important Findings from The Centennial Institutes report entitled Economic and Social Costs

of Legalized Marijuana include the following: 32

- For every dollar gained in tax revenue, Colorado tax payers spend approximately

$4.50 to mitigate the effects of legalization.

- 69% of marijuana users say they have driven under the influence of marijuana at least

once, and 27% admit to driving under the influence on a daily basis.

- The estimated costs of DUIs for people who tested positive for marijuana in 2016 was

approximately $25 million.

- The marijuana industry used enough electricity to power 32,355 homes in 2016. (That is

roughly the size of Nicholasville, KY or Richmond, KY.)33

- Based on DUID direct court-related costs in 2016, the state of Colorado spent an

estimated $18.5 million dollars in court case costs on 2,489 cases. However, that does

not include the damage inflicted by the DUID tried drivers.34

A study concluded by the Marijuana Policy Project and last updated on December 3, 2018

stated that across the U.S. (which included Washington D.C. and territories), the total population

in all legalized medicinal marijuana states was 216,116,280 according to data from 2017.35 Of

which, the estimated number of all state-legal medicinal marijuana patients was 2,617,919;

approximately 1.2%. Simply stated, only 1.2% of Americans where medicinal marijuana is legal,

were prescribed medicinal marijuana. Additionally, within states where only medicinal marijuana

is legal, there are approximately 750,642 total patients who hold legal medicinal marijuana

cards. Meaning, that less than 1% of Americans who reside in states where only medicinal

marijuana is legal, have medicinal marijuana cards.

32 The Centennial Institute. Economic and Social Costs of Legalized Marijuana. November 15, 2018. http://www.ccu.edu/centennial/policy-briefs/marijuana-costs/ Accessed January 23, 2019. 33 Population of Cities in Kentucky. 2019. http://worldpopulationreview.com/states/kentucky-population/cities/ Accessed January 23, 2019. 34 Ibed 35 Marijuana Policy Project. Medical Marijuana Patient Numbers. https://www.mpp.org/issues/medical-marijuana/state-by-state-medical-marijuana-laws/medical-marijuana-patient-numbers/ Accessed January 23, 2019.

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The State of Ohio passed House Bill 523 on September 8, 2016 which allows people with

certain medical conditions to purchase and consume medical marijuana. The state was given

two years to roll out the program, making it fully operational. However, the state has yet to fully

implement its medicinal marijuana program. With a population of approximately 11.7 million

people, of which only 17,077 (less than 1% but on pace with the national average) have applied

for and been approved for medicinal marijuana cards; petitioners are already making a push to

legalize recreational marijuana throughout the state although the medicinal marijuana program

has yet to be implemented. If petitioners are successful at collecting enough signatures

throughout the state, the recreational legalization measure would appear on the ballot on

November 5, 2019, as an initiated constitutional amendment.

Arkansas estimates tax revenue at approximately $2.4 million, but that the cost of creating and

establishing two regulatory enforcement divisions for the AMMA would cost between $4.0 and

$5.7 million annually to operate effectively; creating an overall budget shortfall. Arkansas further

states that the actual tax revenue amount would be unclear, however identifies the possibility

that any revenue could take as long as 18-24 months to receive.

Arkansas, which passed the Arkansas Medical

Marijuana Amendment (AMMA) of 2016, has

yet to fully roll-out their medicinal marijuana

program. With a state population of 2.9 million,

there have only been approximately 7,000

medicinal marijuana cards (less than 1% of the

total population) approved for distribution as of

February 2019. The AMMA imposed a 6.5%

sales tax on all medicinal marijuana sales and

conducted a statistical data compilation of

sales tax revenue by comparing data from

other states with medicinal marijuana laws.

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Analysis

Applying the same statistical data compilation to the Commonwealth of Kentucky as

applied to the AMMA, the following tables are visualized as an estimated tax revenue in the

event medicinal marijuana is legalized in Kentucky:

When compared to the AMMA findings, Kentucky would produce a higher tax revenue

from medicinal marijuana legalization, however it is assessed that the Commonwealth would

incur a higher regulatory expenditure obligation and overall revenue loss. Given historical

findings of states that have legalized medicinal marijuana, legal medicinal distribution would not

occur for approximately 24 months after legalization. In order to regulate legislative guidelines,

the Commonwealth would have to establish one, if not two, regulatory agencies to oversee

legislative guidelines costing millions of dollars to establish. Furthermore, comparative costs

analysis from the AMMA show that annual expenses to operate such agencies would exceed

that of the annual tax revenue produced by medicinal marijuana taxation.

Colorado statistics published by The Centennial Institute expounded on periods of

medicinal and recreational marijuana, however the data remained consistent proving that

marijuana legalization, both medicinally and recreationally, costs the state millions of dollars

more to combat the effects than expected. Is assessed that Kentucky may incur substantial

costs increases within the Department of Justice combatting marijuana related DUID incidents

and other incidents associated to marijuana use.

Therefore, it is assessed that medicinal marijuana in the Commonwealth may not be a

fiscally-sound adoption. Given that approximately 1.2% of Americans in states where medicinal

marijuana is legal actually have medicinal marijuana prescriptions, accompanied by projected

deficits that would be suffered by the Commonwealth, the legalization of medicinal marijuana

may not benefit the Commonwealth. Rather, it is assessed that medicinal legalization may

burden non-medicinal marijuana users by forcing non-users to pay more in taxes to combat the

secondary and tertiary effects.

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Section 4 – Environmental Considerations

Findings

High Water Consumption

Marijuana is a water-intensive crop to grow. Each marijuana plant uses approximately

9.5 gallons of water per day36. Grow sites often divert water from rivers and streams laying miles

of irrigation tubes. The water needs of marijuana grow sites are high enough to totally deplete

local streams and rivers. A one-acre marijuana grow site can accommodate approximately

16,000 marijuana plants and use an estimated 55,000,000 gallons of water per year.

In comparison, a team of researchers outside of Greeley, CO studied crop water

functionality and production to determine moisture-absorption rates. The team, with support

from the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), conducted a five-year research study of

multiple crops, including corn. Equipped with soil-moisture sensors, digital camera technology,

infrared detectors, and infrared thermometers, each crop was analyzed weekly. Their findings

concluded that a one-acre crop of corn consumes approximately 600,000 gallons of water per

grow season.37 Soybean crop water recommendations is even lower, requiring approximately

154,000 gallons of water per grow season.38 39 When compared to one-acre of marijuana, corn

requires approximately 1% of the water necessary for marijuana growth and soybean requires

even less.

36 Marijuana Cultivation and Its Natural Resource Impacts. Dr. Mourad W. Gabriel, University of California-Davis Integral Ecology Research Center. 2018. 37 Mowitz, Dave. Successful Farming. 2,500 Gallons Per Bushel. March 5, 2012. https://www.agriculture.com/machinery/irrigation-equipment/drip-irrigation/2500-gallons-per-bushel_272-ar22678 Accessed March 1, 2019. 38 38 Farm Journal’s: AgPro Journal. Corn and Soybean Water Use. September 26, 2011. https://www.agprofessional.com/article/corn-and-soybeans-water-use Accessed March 1, 2019. 39 Channel.com. Agronomy Advice. Irrigation Timing for Soybean. http://www.channel.com/agronomics/Documents/AgronomicContentPDF/IrrigationTimingforSoybean.pdf Accessed March 1, 2019.

9.5 gallons 1 marijuana plant

9,500 gallons per day

1,000 marijuana

plants

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High Energy Consumption

Controlled environment, or “indoor”, grow operations are capable of producing marijuana

year round, but require massive amounts of energy to operate. In doing so, indoor marijuana

growth operations directly affect industrial energy consumption, which in return requires an

increased energy output from power generation plants. Most of the power used in indoor grow

operations power the lighting necessary to stimulate the marijuana plants’ photosynthesis.

However, high amounts of energy are also needed for maintaining a controlled climate through

variant temperature differentials, humidification, and dehumidification, depending on the season

in which the marijuana is grown.

Indoor Marijuana Grow Operation Facts:

- One kilogram of cultivated marijuana from an indoor grow site generates approximately

4,600 kilograms of CO2 emissions; the equivalent of 3,000,000 automobiles.

- In 2015, marijuana grow operations in the United States accounted for one percent of the

country’s energy use; totaling approximately $6,000,000,000 worth of energy.40

- “In states with particularly high production, marijuana energy use is even higher;

California’s is estimated to be three percent of the state’s total energy use.”41

- Denver, Colorado’s marijuana industry accounts for nearly 4% of the city’s total electricity

consumption.42

40 Pick, Rachel. Growing Marijuana Uses 1 Percent of America’s Total Electricity, Industry Says. February 16, 2016. Accessed March 1, 2019. Subset of Illuminating Cannabis: The Future of Energy in the Cannabis Industry, https://frontierfinancials.com/product/energy-report/ 41 Mills, E. Energy Policy. The Carbon Footprint of Indoor Marijuana Production. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2012.03.023 Vol. 46, July 2012, pages 58-67. 42 Hood, Grace. Colorado Public Radio. Nearly 4 Percent of Denver’s Electricity Is Now Devoted to Marijuana. https://www.cpr.org/news/story/nearly-4-percent-of-denver-s-electricity-is-now-devoted-to-marijuana Accessed March 1, 2019.

One square meter of a marijuana grow

operation can accommodate 4 individual

marijuana plants. On average, these four

marijuana plants can use the equivalent

amount of energy needed to power 29

refrigerators operating at once, which requires

7,000 kilowatts (kW) per year to operate.

Meaning that a one-acre indoor marijuana

grow site, will require approximately 28.1

million kW (28.1 megawatts) to operate.

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Pesticides

Marijuana laws have evolved significantly over the past few decades, with many states

allowing adults to purchase and consume marijuana for medical use, recreation, or both. Still,

federal law lists marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance and limits the availability of

medical marijuana products in certain states. Similarly, a pervasive issue facing all marijuana

users throughout the country is the use of pesticides on marijuana crops. Federal regulations

under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA) do not approve the use of any pesticide, which includes insecticides, herbicides,

fungicides, or rodenticides, on marijuana. Therefore, absent federal regulations, marijuana

growers are left guessing on what pesticides to use on their crop.

Pesticides are used on various crops and play a vital role in many agricultural sectors,

primarily to kill destructive pests and fungi. Like any other plant, marijuana is vulnerable to

different types of fungus and damage or diseases stemming from pest infestations. However, if

inadvertently inhaled or ingested, pesticides may irritate the skin and eyes, cause respiratory

problems, or interfere with the body’s endocrine or hormone systems. Direct pesticide exposure

is the most dangerous, which could cause serious and life threatening health issues.

States including Washington, Colorado and Oregon have uncovered an unsettling trend

of high pesticide levels in marijuana products. Marijuana samples taken from dispensaries in

various states invariably reveal products contaminated with pesticides and other homemade

compounds used to eliminate or prevent infestations. Some companies, including the Wellness

Connection in Maine and TruMarijuana in Colorado, have faced legal penalties for pesticide use

or had to issue recalls on pesticide-contaminated medicinal marijuana products.43

Medical marijuana users consume marijuana in a variety of ways. While some smoke it

in traditional fashion, others use vaporizers, consume edibles, drink marijuana infused liquids,

and even apply topical creams. While a one-time dose of marijuana tainted with pesticides may

not be fatal or even cause a noticeable reaction, most people who use medical marijuana use it

on a regular basis, even every day. Over time, pesticide use in marijuana crops may cause

severe health issues.

Pesticides also seep into soil and ground water contaminating streams, rivers, and

surrounding waterways; ultimately harming the fish and wildlife that rely on this water. Infection

of fish and wildlife by pesticides in turn effects hunters and fishermen. Hunters and fishers who

feed their families may not be aware of pesticide infected game; indirectly exposing themselves

and their families to unknown amounts of harmful pesticides.

Furthermore, the Commonwealth of Kentucky currently lists 59 threatened and

endangered species. An additional 31 more have been petitioned to be added to the list. Of the

current 59 threatened and endangered species, 4 are mammals, 4 are birds, and 37 are either

amphibious or water based species. The remaining 14 include insects and plant life. All of which

43 Importance of Chemical and Pesticide Free Medical Marijuana for Patients. https://kindmedsaz.com/blog/importance-chemical-pesticide-free-marijuana-medical/ Accessed February 12, 2019.

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survive off of natural and manmade waterways. All of which could be directly affected by

pesticide exposure from medicinal marijuana production operations.

Analysis

The Wolf Creek Dam reservoir holds an estimated 1.9 Trillion gallons of water; which is

enough water to cover the entire Commonwealth in three inches of water spread out evenly.44 45

The dam is a multi-purpose dam on the Cumberland River contributing to the creation of Lake

Cumberland, one of the most popular tourism sites in the Commonwealth. The dam houses six

turbines capable of producing 270 megawatt/hours of hydroelectric power. More than enough

power that is required for all of Lexington, KY having the state’s second largest population.

(2017 Census population 321,95946)

Applying the aforementioned rate of water consumption for marijuana plant growth, if

100 acres of marijuana are cultivated yearly, growth operations would consume an estimated

5.6 Billion gallons of water yearly. When compared to the current volume of water held by The

Wolf Creek Dam water reservoir, the reservoir could potentially be dry within 5 years.

Furthermore, it is assessed that the depreciated power production caused by lowering water

levels due to marijuana production, recipients of power from the dam would be forced to seek

an alternative power source to supply their need.

It is also assessed that increased marijuana production throughout the Commonwealth

could increase the rate of exposure of pesticide poisoning to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

As the federal government does not regulate the use of pesticides for the production of

marijuana, cultivators of marijuana would be forced to concoct their own methods of treating

their marijuana crops. In doing so, is it assessed that the rate of environmental hazards caused

by pollutants could increase further endanger fish, wildlife, additional plant life, and

subsequently affecting consumers of game and crops.

44 About Lake Cumberland. http://www.lakecumberland.com/lake-information/about-lake-cumberland/ Accessed January 28, 2019. 45 Lake Cumberland Photo. June 19, 2015. The Commonwealth Journal, Wolf Creek Dam’s Safety Status Upgraded. http://www.lakecumberland.com/lake-information/about-lake-cumberland/ Accessed January 28, 2019. 46 US Census Bureau. World Population Review. http://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/lexington-population/

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Section 5: Alternatives to Medicinal Marijuana

Findings

Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in industrial hemp and

in marijuana. CBD oil is one of at least 85 cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis and is

popular for its medicinal benefits. After tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the most abundant

compound in cannabis, CBD is the second most abundant. Other names for CBD oil include

CBD-rich hemp oil, hemp-derived CBD oil, or CBD-rich cannabis oil. CBD is generally

considered to be safe and has been used medicinally for decades. What separates CBD from

THC, is that CBD is not psychotropic.

Medicinal effects of CBD include decreasing anxiety, improving sleep, and has been

found to treat the painful effects caused by arthritis or injuries.47 CBD has also been found to

treat neuropathic pain, also known as nerve pain. Some of the most common sources of nerve

pain include diabetes, injury, cancer, infections, and autoimmune disorders. Nerve pain is a

unique type of pain that is typically caused by an injury, causing dysfunctional or irritated

nerves. This pain tends to be chronic and severe, leading individuals to try numerous

medications in hopes to combat the pain.

A study published in Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal, entitled Cannabidiol Oil

for Decreasing Addictive Use of Marijuana: A Case Report, found that CBD was an effective

alternative to pain relief for individuals who were using marijuana as a means of pain

management.48 The study also showed that CBD oil “may have therapeutic properties on opioid,

cocaine, and psychostimulant addictions”. The study went on to show that daily CBD use, as

opposed to daily marijuana use, reduced irritability, anxiety, and marijuana cravings. The study

further cited that no changes were made in patient’s medication schedule, diet, or lifestyle and

concluded by emphasizing that the outcomes were the actual effects of the CBD oil.

Approved Forms of Synthetic Marijuana

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Epidiolex, a synthetically

made byproduct of CBD, as an oral solution for the treatment of seizures associated with two

rare and severe forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, in patients

two years of age and older. This is the first FDA-approved drug that contains a purified drug

substance derived from marijuana. It is also the first FDA approval of a drug for the treatment of

patients with Dravet syndrome.49

47 Gleichmann, Nicole. Best Marijuana for Pain Relief: CBD or THC Strands. Analytical Cannabis. https://www.analyticalcannabis.com/articles/best-marijuana-for-pain-relief-cbd-or-thc-strains-311353 Accessed November 28, 2018. 48 Shannon, S., Opila-Lehman, J. Cannabidiol Oil for Decreasing Addictive Use of Marijuana: A Case Report. December 2015. 49 U.S. Food and Drug Administration. June 25, 2018.

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Marinol is a pharmaceutical form of THC, which can be used in place of cannabis. While

having a wide variety of cannabinoids found in natural cannabis, it can provide relief for certain

conditions. Marinol, also known as Dronabinol, is a synthetic form of THC created in a lab and

federally approved for medical use in the US. Marinol was first approved by the FDA in 1985 for

nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy. In 1992, it was approved for appetite and weight loss

in HIV/AIDS and in 1999, its drug classification was changed from Schedule 2 to Schedule 3.

Nabilone is a man-made form of cannabis used to treat severe nausea and vomiting

caused by cancer chemotherapy. Nabilone is for use only when other medications have been

unable to control the nausea and vomiting. While some pro-marijuana advocates promote

marijuana use by pregnant women to deter the nauseating effects of pregnancy, Nabilone can

be used in the same manner without the intoxicating effects of THC. Furthermore, the effects of

THC on unborn children are not yet known.

Analysis

On December 20, 2018, President Donald Trump signed into law the Agriculture

Improvement Act of 2018, more commonly known as the “2018 Farm Bill”. The bill loosens farm

subsidy rules and legalizes industrial hemp as a crop. Farmers are now legally allowed to

cultivate hemp which genetically contains pure CBD; negating the need for marijuana to be

grown in order to extract CBD. The influx of CBD to the medical market is exactly what pro-CBD

advocates have requested in the past, but without the adverse effects of THC which is still a

Scheduled I drug according to the Controlled Substances Act. By allowing farmers to grow CBD

instead of marijuana, chemists are able to provide a medicinal alternative without the potential

hazard of cross-contamination of THC in CBD derived from marijuana plants. Therefore, it is

assessed that CBD derived from hemp is a safer medicinal alternative to the people of the

Commonwealth as opposed to CBD derived from marijuana.

Additionally, patients seeking medicinal relief from marijuana derived products already

have two solutions. Epidiolex and Marinol have been approved by the FDA and have been put

through the rigorous tests and research necessary to determine if these drugs are safe for

human consumption. By negating these necessary steps as outlined by the FDA, and strictly

legalizing marijuana as a medicinal alternative, legislatures would be ignoring the medical and

scientific communities rational approach to any other drug. By avoiding these steps, it is

assessed that unknown hazards associated with medicinal marijuana could put the safety and

health of the general public at risk.

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Section 6 – Conclusion

As the Commonwealth of Kentucky is seeking legislation surrounding the rapidly growing

popularity in medicinal marijuana, the sections above outline substantial hazards and pitfalls

associated with medicinal marijuana legalization. More than one-fourth of the population in

Kentucky perceive smoking marijuana as a great risk of harm to not only users of marijuana but

to non-users as well. Although there has been an increase in alternative means of marijuana

consumption methods, as opposed to the traditional means of smoking marijuana, alternative

methods do not negate the harmful events surrounding marijuana use. Marijuana use in

Kentucky is already higher than the national average amongst young people. By legalizing

medicinal marijuana, the Commonwealth faces the potential of subsequently leading the nation

in marijuana usage. As young people and school-aged children are facing an increase in the

exposure to marijuana, the potential for long term use and long term side effects may become

more prevalent.

Data provided by states that have passed legal medicinal marijuana legislation have

experienced an increase in drugged driving and drugged driving incidents; including fatalities.

Just as these states, Kentucky lacks the technology to detect the presence of marijuana in a

driver’s system. Even though states with medicinal marijuana laws also have laws making it

illegal for drivers to operate a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, the facts show that

not only are people driving under the influence of marijuana, but that they are more than twice

as likely to be involved in a fatal car accident. Leaders in the automobile safety industry have

warned against the dangers of driving under the influence of marijuana and openly condemn

doing so, however the facts remain the same: people will drive under the influence of marijuana

and incidents involving marijuana will increase. Therefore, any legislature that would legalize

medicinal marijuana could most likely cause an increased risk of harm to its citizens.

One such intent of passing a medicinal marijuana legalization bill is to assist individuals

who are suffering from terminal or life-threatening illnesses that have exhausted other treatment

options; such as people suffering from cancer, AIDS, and seizure disorders. Although these

concerns are morally sound, this position isn’t being treated as such. More people are receiving

medicinal marijuana prescriptions for chronic pain, than all other illnesses combined. When

multiple studies compare a list of medical conditions that have been itemized, chronic pain

always offsets itself from these terminal conditions. So much in fact that approximately two-

thirds of all patients seek medicinal marijuana to combat chronic pain, not another underlying

condition.

While the popularity of medicinal marijuana continues to grow, so does the argument for

increased revenue associated with the drug. However, as large as revenue numbers appear to

be, what is not shown publicly, but depicted above is the costs associated with combatting the

after effects of marijuana legalization. Colorado, a leading state in the marijuana industry, has

reported that for every dollar that is gained in tax revenue, it spends over four times that

combatting the after effects. The state of Arkansas, who passed medicinal marijuana legislation,

but has yet to roll out their medicinal marijuana program, has cited fiscal irresponsibility

measures due to the lack of revenue from medicinal marijuana. Although medicinal marijuana

producers and distributors will reap millions of dollars in revenue, only a fraction will be gained

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by the state in taxes, so much that Arkansas has projected deficits in supporting their own

medicinal marijuana program. Inadvertently placing the burden on its own citizens to make up

the difference in tax appropriations.

Marijuana continues to be a labor intensive crop to cultivate. With high rates of water

consumption needed for adequate cultivation, marijuana crops may threaten and potentially

diminish water supplies throughout the Commonwealth. Additionally, by-products containing

pesticides from marijuana cultivation have been proven to seep in to nearby waterways polluting

the surrounding area and natural wildlife. This contamination has been found in medicinal

marijuana products throughout the nation and may have an indirect effect on users of medicinal

marijuana throughout the Commonwealth if legalized. Furthermore, marijuana requires very

high rates of energy to cultivate indoors. Indoor marijuana growth operations, if large enough,

have the potential to use as much power as small cities. Multiple spikes in power consumption

throughout the state to support cultivation could place a strain on the Commonwealth’s overall

power grid, forcing regions of the Commonwealth to redirect power or seek alternative power

supply methods.

Overall, the potential consequences of introducing medicinal marijuana to the

Commonwealth may cause a wide array of adverse effects. Seeking an additional medicinal

option that currently treats 1% of the population legally, while there are currently FDA approved

medicinal marijuana alternatives already on the market, could be viewed as an attempt to

circumvent the medical approval process as outlined by federal guidelines. More so, legalizing

medicinal marijuana without FDA guidelines and federal oversight, could be putting citizens of

the Commonwealth at harm based on the findings of this research.

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