As lawmakers prepare to debate marijuana legalization, a Minnesota psychiatrist weighs inPosted by MMP News AuthorOn April 24, 2023

[MUSIC PLAYING] CATHY WURZER: The Minnesota House is about ready to start its floor session for the day, and it is expected to be a long day as lawmakers are set to debate a 300 page bill that would legalize marijuana for recreational use in the state. If it is passed, the bill would allow people 21 and older to legally buy marijuana, and if licensed, sell it. Selling recreational weed would be overseen by a new State Office of Cannabis Management. The bill also includes money that would fund addiction and recovery programs.

The proposal has some medical providers talking about what legalized cannabis use might mean for the health of Minnesotans, especially their mental health. We asked the Minnesota Medical Association for an interview, but they told us they’re not commenting on the issue at this time. So joining us now is Dr. Sheila Specker. She is a psychiatrist and the director of the Addiction Medicine Fellowship at the University of Minnesota. She’s on the line. Welcome, Doctor.

SHEILA SPECKER: Thank you very much.

CATHY WURZER: You’ve had a chance to look at the House bill, I understand. What stands out to you?

SHEILA SPECKER: Well, there are several things that stand out. I think probably the most profound is the lack of attention to the impact of cannabis on our Minnesotans and particularly on persons that have mental health problems.

Most of the bill is focused on the business– the business of conducting recreational cannabis, dispensing, how much weight…