On November 16, the University of Minnesota School of Public Health (SPH) unveiled a new Cannabis Research Center (CRC). This center is dedicated to examining the public health implications of legalizing adult-use cannabis and shaping the state’s future policies on cannabis.
With Governor Tim Walz’s approval of a legalization bill in May, Minnesota joined the ranks as the 23rd state to permit adult-use cannabis.
Under this legislation, an Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is to be established by July 1, 2023. This office will be charged with managing the state’s imminent adult-use cannabis initiative, in addition to the current medical cannabis and hemp programs.
From August 1, the new statute permits individuals aged 21 and over to buy a maximum of 2 ounces of cannabis from licensed vendors, keep up to 2 pounds at home, and cultivate up to eight plants, with a limit of four mature plants, in their residences.
The law also set up a cannabis advisory council and mandated detailed studies and reporting on the effects of legalization.
The University of Minnesota’s CRC enters the picture here. The state’s law for adult-use cannabis includes funding of $2.5 million annually, sourced from cannabis sales tax, to establish this research facility.
In collaboration with state organizations and agencies, the CRC aims to deepen the understanding of cannabis’s health impacts, including its effects on young users and its interaction with other substances such as opioids and alcohol.
The University of Minnesota states that the researchers will also investigate the influence of legalizing adult-use cannabis on health equity and public safety.
Appointed as the CRC’s first director is Traci Toomey, a professor at SPH and an expert in public health policy, particularly in policies related to substance use control.
Traci Toomey expressed gratitude to the Minnesota Legislature and Governor Walz for their support in establishing the state’s inaugural cannabis-focused research center at the SPH. She expressed enthusiasm about leading the CRC and working with colleagues to conduct groundbreaking research on the effects of legalizing adult-use cannabis. This research will encompass areas like substance use disorder prevention and treatment, equity, education, and decriminalization.
Guiding principles for the CRC’s work have been established, which include:
- Pioneering cannabis research in the scientific arena.
- Embracing anti-racist principles by focusing on equity-related questions and integrating these practices into their research methodology and communication.
- Aiming to maximize health benefits and reduce health risks associated with cannabis, addressing pressing questions now and in the future.
- Serving as a reliable resource for cannabis research information for individuals, communities, and various organizations.
Initial steps for the CRC involve identifying experienced staff and faculty, forming an executive committee for strategic guidance, and seeking partnerships throughout Minnesota to promote the center’s objectives.
“In collaboration with local and state agencies as well as community organizations, we aim to pinpoint the initial research focuses concerning cannabis usage in Minnesota,” stated SPH Interim Dean Timothy Beebe. He expressed confidence that under Dr. Toomey’s leadership, the CRC will equip policymakers with vital data and insights to make informed decisions about cannabis, thereby preventing inequity and negative health consequences across the state.
“As the sole public health school in Minnesota, we take pride in continuing the state’s rich tradition of health innovation and research. We’re grateful to our state leaders for this chance to contribute towards optimal health outcomes for all Minnesotans,” Beebe added.
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