DATE:
May 23, 2023
31
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT:
Title
PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM CANNABIS POISONING (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
Every year, thousands of young children consume and are sickened by marijuana edibles, which look like ordinary candy or cookies. Nearly one-fourth of these children are admitted to the hospital. The number of children hospitalized due to cannabis consumption has increased in recent years. In 2017, there were just over 200 reported cases of accidental ingestion of cannabis edibles by children under six nationwide. In 2021, the number increased to 3,054 - an increase of 1,375%. About 90 percent of the cases originated from the child's home.
In 2016, California voters were promised that the legalization of recreational marijuana through Proposition 64 would not result in the targeting or advertising of cannabis to children. However, seven years later, the industry is using billboards to promote cannabis-infused gummies and hard candies, shops named "Cookies" with flavors like lemonade, and advertisements that imitate Disney+ shows. The industry has not kept its promise, and it is time to reform the law.
Assembly Bill 1207, also known as the Cannabis Youth Protection Act, authored by Assemblymember Irwin, would prohibit cannabis or cannabis products that are attractive to children and advertisement and marketing that is attractive to children.
RECOMMENDATION
SUPERVISOR JIM DESMOND
Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to express the County's support for AB 1207, consistent with Board Policy M-2.
EQUITY IMPACT STATEMENT
Children are among the most vulnerable in our community. By supporting AB 1207, the County of San Diego can help reduce the impact of accidental ingestion of cannabis on children. This would contribute to promoting equity in health outcomes and reducing disparities in access to healthcare services.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT STATEMENT
The proposed action to support AB 1207 would contribute to the Coun...
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