Emergency room visits related to cannabis poisoning have doubled in New York since 2016, according to recent data from the State Department of Health. The number of such visits rose from approximately 1,200 in 2016 to nearly 2,400 in 2024.
The data indicates a particularly sharp increase in poisonings among toddlers, with incidents involving edibles and candies exceeding those from common household substances like Tylenol and aspirin combined. The State Department of Health reported that ER admissions for toddlers due to pot poisoning saw a rise of over 1,600%.
Beyond accidental ingestions, the long-term effects of cannabis use among adolescents are also a concern. The department found that 16% of teenagers who regularly use cannabis are likely to develop Cannabis Use Disorder, compared to about 10% of individuals who begin using as adults. National studies have also shown correlations between states with legalized marijuana and increased rates of psychotic and bipolar disorders among young adults.
These developments have emerged in the wake of New York's efforts to decriminalize marijuana and establish commercial sales. The push for legalization was attributed to former Gov. Andrew Cuomo's presidential ambitions and a desire by Democratic lawmakers for increased tax revenue. Current officials, including Gov. Kathy Hochul, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, are now facing the consequences, including the surge in child poisonings and potential increases in adolescent mental health issues, as well as ongoing challenges with the state's Office of Cannabis Management.