The shifting landscape of cannabis legalization: Potential benefits and regulatory perspectives

Christopher L. Newman, Marlys J. Mason and Jeff Langenderfer

Journal of Consumer Affairs, 2021, vol. 55, issue 3, 1169-1177

Abstract: This comment is a response to Al‐Hamdani et al. (forthcoming) in this issue. The authors of that paper advocate plain packaging and warning label regulation for cannabis drawing on research from Canadian tobacco labelling and based on the public health dangers of cannabis. While we acknowledge the harmful effects of cannabis for some vulnerable consumers, this paper highlights the benefits of cannabis legalization and proposes regulatory oversight more akin to alcohol with a goal of responsible usage, information, and access; rather than one drawn from tobacco labeling, a product with few discernable benefits and myriad documented harms. Highlighted advantages include increased tax revenues, enforcement cost savings, therapeutic benefits, positive environmental impacts, and social benefits such as a reduction in racial disparities related to marijuana prosecutions. We discuss how a regulatory approach that mirrors alcohol control can better foster consumer protection, fair competition, and public interest in this emerging industry.

Date: 2021
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