The legalization of recreational marijuana remains unapproved in Pennsylvania even as various leaders up to the Governor circulate proposals to change that. But make no mistake. De facto legalization has already begun, and we need a better mental health system to treat the health problems that are already here and will only be growing.

The impact on kids and adults

Products with high amounts of THC, marijuana’s active ingredient, circulate widely — with some products diverted from medical dispensaries and others sold in vape shops. In 2024, Children Hospital of Philadelphia’s Poison Control Center reported receiving a call every day about a child under six being harmed by a THC-laden product in PA and Delaware. Some of these children must be put into ICUs or placed on ventilators.

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