Concerns are emerging over the potential downsides of marijuana legalisation in states like New York, where recreational use became legal in 2021. Reports suggest legalisation may unintentionally increase the availability of synthetic cannabinoids, such as K2, linked to high-profile incidents of public disorder. Additionally, marijuana’s association with mental health challenges, including the early onset of schizophrenia in young people and exacerbated conditions among existing sufferers, has raised alarms. Advocates tout the calming effects of marijuana; yet, irritability and anger post-use are noted drawbacks. Traffic fatalities and cannabis-related car crashes have spiked, both in New York and Canada, following legalisation.

Another issue tied to legalisation is its correlation with a rise in overdose deaths from harder substances. New York’s overdose death rate doubled from 20.7 per 100,000 residents in 2019 to 44 per 100,000 by 2023, far exceeding the national increase during the same timeframe. The data raises concern that marijuana may act as a societal “gateway drug,” altering perceptions around the safety of harder substances. These trends suggest that legalising marijuana may carry risks that require close scrutiny.

More details can be found at National Review.