Considerations for Research in States with Recent or Pending Legalization of Non-Medical Cannabis: Lessons Learned from Alcohol and Opportunities for Research

In the alcohol research literature, many studies demonstrate the impact of advertisements, outlet density, and perceived norms on attitudes and behaviors. Now that Washington State has exceeded 11 years of legal cannabis for non-medical purposes, building upon the existing evidence base with alcohol, we can examine what contributes to perceived harm and availability with cannabis in a legal context and begin to explore opportunities for future research.

In this commentary, we consider how cannabis with high THC concentration is viewed, explore trends surrounding impaired driving, discuss loopholes in legislation that have allowed for the emergence of synthetic cannabinoids, and examine pandemic-related decisions made by lawmakers related to cannabis use. Collectively, we consider what these mean for perceived risks and norms, as well as opportunities for future research.

Lessons from alcohol research provide a roadmap for the study of various impacts of cannabis legalization. Further, as other states consider legalization, lessons learned over the past 11 years in Washington could be used to prepare for what might emerge.