Georgetown University — Public health and cannabis legalization

Abstract

The Open Philanthropy Project, acknowledging the expedited rate of cannabis legalization worldwide, underscores the importance of effective regulation to maximize possible public health gains and minimize potential harms. Engaging Graham Boyd, a consultant with prior experience in cannabis policy, efforts were made to find opportunities that decrease potential negative effects while enhancing possible advantages of recreational cannabis legalization. This initiated a collaboration with the O’Neill Institute for National & Global Health Law and the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) that sought to ascertain and promote awareness about potential regulations to balance public health consequences amidst legalization efforts. The project involved consultation with public health leaders and people directly involved in cannabis legalization. However, the scope of the project’s realization may be constrained depending on efforts to involve other potential funders. – AI-generated abstract.