Youth Under 21

• Effects on The Brain and The Body
  The brain develops until around age 25, and using cannabis during adolescence, especially regularly or heavily, can permanently damage it. This can affect concentration, problem-solving, learning, memory retention, overall cognitive functions, attention, and motor coordination. Smoking cannabis can lead to breathing issues, while consuming edibles increases the risk of poisoning.
• Effects on School Life
  Negative effects of cannabis on the brain can significantly impact school life. Continuous marijuana use has been linked to lower grades, increased dropout rates, and decreased IQ scores compared to peers who do not use cannabis products. Cannabis affects:
  • Concentration: Focusing and studying without distractions
  • Attention: Following along in class discussions
  • Problem-solving: Figuring out complex tasks, such as math problems
  • Learning: Picking up new skills or sports
  • Memory retention: Remembering recent information or instructions
  • Motor coordination: Performing tasks like writing neatly, playing instruments, or participating in PE classes
• Effects on Social Life
  The CDC reveals that studies among teens have found substance use, including cannabis, is associated with risky sexual behaviors that increase the risk of HIV, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and pregnancy. These behaviors include early sexual initiation, having multiple sex partners, and inconsistent condom use.

Using cannabis can also impair reaction time, coordination, and concentration required for safe driving and operating machinery. Driving under the influence of any mind-altering substance can lead to fatal accidents.

Youth with a family or personal history of mental illnesses, depression, anxiety, or developmental disabilities should avoid using cannabis products, as they can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of addiction.

• Nevada Laws

As of November 8th, 2016, both recreational and medical marijuana were legalized in Nevada for adults 21 and older. It is illegal for anyone under 21 years of age to purchase, possess, or use any recreational cannabis product. It is also illegal for adults to give recreational cannabis products to anyone under 21.

• Penalties

Nevada law states that it is a misdemeanor for anyone under 21 to falsify their age to obtain cannabis. Additionally, knowingly entering, loitering, or remaining on the premises of a cannabis establishment, excluding medical cannabis cardholders, can result in a fine of up to $500.

The best way for youth to use cannabis is not to use it at all. It is illegal for anyone under 21 to use recreational cannabis products.

• Cannabis has a stronger effect on youth than on adults. The experience can vary based on factors like usage method, sex, body weight, previous experience, THC concentration, and whether food has been consumed. Because everyone reacts differently, these factors should be considered when planning to use any cannabis products.
• Vaping cannabis can be as dangerous as smoking. It can expose users to harmful chemicals, cannabis poisoning, and lung injuries like EVALI. THC concentrates, oils, and waxes used in dabbing and vaping have higher THC levels than smoked cannabis, so they should be used with caution.
• Do not use synthetic cannabinoids, also known as K2, Spice, and Spike, which have been linked to deaths and are illegal for anyone to possess regardless of age. If you have taken synthetic cannabinoids, call the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222 or dial 911 for emergency assistance.
• Adults in Nevada can only purchase recreational cannabis from licensed retail stores, dispensaries, or consumption lounges. Obtaining cannabis from sources other than licensed retail stores, dispensaries, or consumption lounges is illegal and can expose consumers to harmful substances such as PCP, heroin, embalming fluid, LSD, methamphetamine, ketamine, cocaine, glass, and other dangerous materials.
• Cannabis affects coordination and attention, which are important skills needed for driving and operating machinery. Driving any vehicle, vessel, or aircraft (including water skis, surfboards, bicycles, drones) while under the influence of cannabis can result in prosecution and DUI charges.
• For free help quitting smoking or vaping, contact the Nevada Tobacco Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669), or visit www.nevadatobaccoquitline.com for more information.

Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know Want to know more? Some FAQs about MarijuanaState of Nevada Preventing Marijuana Use Among Youth & Young Adults What Can Marijuana Be Laced with? Cannabis Compliance Board NIDA: Cannabis (Marijuana) CDC: Cannabis and Teens