A Tobacco Control Framework for Regulating Public Consumption of Cannabis: Multistate Analysis and Policy Implications

• DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2019.305423
• Publication Date: 2019-12-19T21:02:25Z
• Authors: Jane Steinberg; Jennifer B. Unger; Cynthia Hallett; Elizabeth Williams; Lourdes Baezconde...; Michael R. Cousineau
• Keywords: Consumption

Eleven US states and Washington, DC, legalized recreational (adult use) cannabis. Seven states—Alaska, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon, Washington—allow cannabis sales. A public health concern is that exemptions in state or local smoke-free laws for smoking vaping will weaken laws, expose the to secondhand cannabis, renormalize smoking. We describe experience of seven challenges faced maintaining laws. Using elements a tobacco control framework, we identify best practices regulation by comparing each state’s allowances use. All prohibit use; two lack 100% protections; one lacks devices its law; three allow use retailers; social consumption lounges; tourism venues. States should close gaps not expand where permitted ensure health.