How to Defend Allowing Marijuana Use in Public
Those supporting the use of marijuana legally in public compare the substance to alcohol and tobacco. Alcohol is consumed legally in bars with much exposure to the general public, while tobacco is consumed in smoking sections of most establishments. They argue for allowing responsible adults to use marijuana openly with no threat of any action against them, as long as they are disturbing no one.
Key reasons in favor of the use of marijuana publicly would include:
- While a number of states and countries have now legalized marijuana for medical or recreational purposes,
- Public consumption lounges and cafes will be noted to appear in some cities, providing a safe place where marijuana users can congregate.
- Public use might help destigmatize and normalize marijuana, reducing harmful stereotypes
- It may encourage more responsible use by bringing consumption out into the open rather than hidden away
The Case Against Public Marijuana Use
On the other hand, many people feel that marijuana use should not be allowed where people of all ages are on account of a couple of reasons:
- Secondhand marijuana smoke contains many of the same toxins and carcinogens as tobacco smoke posing health risks to bystanders
- The pungent smell of marijuana is noxious and invasive to others who do not wish to be put upon by the odor.
- Children and teens may more easily witness and be influenced by public marijuana use, possibly increasing the risk of underage experimentation
- There is concern regarding drivers or operators of heavy machinery consuming marijuana in public.
- Some are concerned public use would lead to wider acceptance, use of marijuana, including problematic use
Key Considerations for Policymakers
As attitudes and laws regarding marijuana continue to evolve, policymakers are considering how to handle public use. Following are some of the more salient factors they must consider:
- What is the definition of public space, and types of use that may be permitted, e.g., smoking vaping edibles etc.
- Determining restrictions on public use around playgrounds in schools and other children’s areas
- Establishing limits on the amount of marijuana that may be possessed or consumed in public
- Determining appropriate penalties for public consumption violations
- Public information campaigns that could encourage responsible use and lower certain risks, such as driving under the influence
- Monitoring the impacts of public use policies on public health safety and underage use rates
Potential Compromises
With valid concerns on both sides, some jurisdictions are making attempts to allow for limited public marijuana use subject to certain restrictions. For example:
- Whereas allowing public consumption in licensed lounges or cafes does not extend into the general public areas,
- Including rendering it inaccessible to the people except in times of lesser vulnerability, such as in the evenings.
- Requiring a distance between public use areas from schools, parks, and other sensitive locations
- Odor control at an extremely stringent level, which shows minimal smell impacts on neighbors and passersby.
Statistics on Public Opinion
Public opinion on marijuana use including public consumption has shifted rapidly in recent years Here are some notable statistics:
- A 2021 Pew Research poll reported that 91% of US adults believe marijuana should be legal for either medical or recreational use-up from just 16 percent in 1990.
- Yet, a 2019 survey conducted by SSRS found just 34% of Americans saying marijuana should be allowed to be used in public places.
- In Canada, which legalized marijuana nationwide in 2018, a 2019 poll found 60 percent in support of banning all public smoking and vaping of cannabis.
- A 2020 October poll in Colorado, where marijuana is legal showed 55 percent support to ban its use on public grounds in parks and on trails.
These figures are indicative of a high degree of public support for legalization being matched by considerable reservation regarding allowing its use in public spaces used by all.
Marijuana Products and Public Use
It is important to consider the consumption method when determining the appropriateness of using marijuana in public. For instance:
- While smoking or vaping marijuana produces secondhand smoke and strong odors that can affect nearby individuals, it may be considered relatively more problematic in public areas.
- Consumables, like Delta 8 THC gummies or other infused foods and drinks, are more discreet and less of a nuisance to other people. However, if left accessible, it can inadvertently be ingested by children.
- Topical products, like lotions and balms, do not present a significant enough risk of exposing others and are generally not used in public anyway
Policymakers could adopt variable regulations on public use depending on the product type. For example, they may allow edibles and topicals in public, while smoking and vaping are reserved for private residences or specific lounges.
Conclusion
Public marijuana use is a complex and contentious issue with ardent arguments on both sides, and one that policymakers will increasingly face as marijuana legalization continues to spread. As such, balancing personal freedoms, public health, and community impacts will be important.
Ultimately, public consumption of marijuana might be deemed acceptable in very limited contexts, such as within a consumption area, but will most likely be banned in the majority of general public places that people of all ages frequent. Communities navigating this changing world will have to be prepared for open and respectful dialogue.
