Robin Westman’s pot connection is another reason to go slow on looser rules for weed

The recent revelation that Robin Westman, a former employee at a cannabis dispensary in Minneapolis, was fired for chronic tardiness and absenteeism should raise concerns for those advocating for federal approval of marijuana use. Westman, who worked at Rise until just two weeks ago, is believed to have been using marijuana, given the culture of the industry.

Research has shown that heavy marijuana use can exacerbate mental health issues and increase the likelihood of developing conditions such as schizophrenia. The potency of today’s marijuana products far surpasses that of previous decades, with some strains containing up to 10 times more THC. This has led to concerns about the impact of marijuana use on public health and safety.

Despite these concerns, there are reports that President Donald Trump is considering reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug. This move would make it easier for the cannabis industry to operate in states where marijuana is legalized and could potentially lead to nationwide legalization efforts.

Supporters of marijuana legalization argue that legalizing the drug would reduce crime rates, as it would no longer be associated with illegal activities. However, a recent study by South Korean scholar Sunyoung Lee found that crime levels actually increased in US states that legalized marijuana. Additionally, there has been a rise in auto accidents related to driving under the influence of marijuana.

It is important to consider the scientific evidence when making decisions about drug policy, rather than being influenced by corporate interests. The potential reclassification of marijuana could have significant implications for the industry, including major tax deductions and increased expansion. President Trump should proceed with caution and carefully consider the potential consequences of such a decision.