Cannabis is a potentially addictive drug. Recent reports have shown that 3 in 10 people who use cannabis were found to have a cannabis use disorder. They are unable to stop using cannabis even though it is causing health and/or social problems in their lives (CDC).
Current Minnesota Laws
According to the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management, a person age 21 or older may:
- Use, possess, or transport cannabis paraphernalia.
- Possess or transport up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower in a public place.
- Possess up to 2 pounds of cannabis flower in a person’s private residence.
- Possess or transport up to 8 grams of adult-use concentrate.
- Possess or transport edible cannabis products or lower-potency hemp edibles infused with a combined 800 milligrams or less of THC.
- Give away cannabis flower and products to a person 21 or older in an amount legal for a person to possess in public.
The current laws regarding Cannabis in Minnesota can be found here.
Safe and responsible use
- Cannabis should always be used responsibly and never used before driving a vehicle or operating heavy machinery. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and subject to additional DWI sanctions. Learn more at the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have been diagnosed with or are predisposed to serious mental illness, talk with your health care provider before using cannabis.
- To avoid dangerous interactions with prescribed medications, talk to your health care provider or pharmacist before using cannabis.
- Make sure your cannabis is stored safely. Keep your products in child-resistant packaging, clearly labeled and locked up.
- If you think your cannabis use is disrupting your daily life or causing problems at home, work, or school, talk to your health care provider or substance use counselor.
Medical Use
There are researched beneficial effects of medical cannabis use, such as preventing nausea in chemotherapy patients, preventing seizures, and alleviating PTSD symptoms. Medical cannabis use, under the close care of a physician, may be appropriate for some people and for treating or alleviating specific health conditions.
Why/How MMS CHS is involved
MMS CHS workes to provide cannabis education, harm reduction efforts related to using cannabis and prevention efforts. MMS CHS workes with the general public, caregivers, parents, clients and schools and across programs such as Project Harmony and Healthy Homes.
This work is supported by Minnesota Department of Health Cannabis Substance Use Prevention grant funding.
Youth and Cannabis
The human brain develops until about the age of 25. Cannabis use directly affects brain function—specifically the parts of the brain responsible for memory, learning, attention, decision making, coordination, emotions, and reaction time (CDC).
Your brain doesn’t fully develop until your mid-20s. Using before then can have a lasting impact on your health and future.
See why using at a young age can be problematic below.
- Brain Development
Using at a young age can cause physical changes in the brain that can permanently harm your memory, learning, and attention. - Lung Problems
Inhaling the toxins and chemicals found in marijuana smoke, like ammonia and components of tar, can increase your risk of developing lung problems. - Mental Health
Those who use cannabis may be more likely to develop anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide. - Your Record
If you are caught under the age of 21 with any amount, you and the person who supplied the weed could face legal consequences.
Some common protective factors for youth substance use include:
- Interpersonal skills that help youth achieve social and personal goals
- Capacity to adapt to change and handle stressful life events in healthy ways
- Developmentally appropriate opportunities to be involved with their family, school, and community
- Community, family, and peer attitudes and norms that discourage substance use
- Experiencing economic stability through opportunities in their communities
Find out more
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