Dunn pushes for legislation to protect children from cannabis

After thirty children received medical attention for accidentally ingesting cannabis in July, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (R-Mendham) is demanding legislation that would require stricter regulations.

Dunn’s proposed legislation (A5210) is designed to ensure children do not have easy access to cannabis. Under the bill, packages containing cannabis may not be designed in a way that appeals to children; certain warning labels would be required on all packages; and, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission will be required to report on the adverse effects cannabis has on children.

“An increasing number of children are gaining access to cannabis products following the legalization of adult-use recreational marijuana in New Jersey. Children are overdosing on edibles, not only because they are legal, but because they resemble benign candies and treats,” Dunn said. “It is time the Legislature put the proper safeguards in place to protect children by codifying the packaging regulations created by the cannabis commission.”

In addition to these precautions, Dunn’s proposed legislation also outlines penalties: If an adult does not properly store their cannabis, and a child 16 and under gains access to it, that adult would be charged with a disorderly person’s offense.

“Adults should be locking up their marijuana along with their liquor. The same precautions need to be taken because there are similar consequences,” stated Dunn.  “Responsible adults are caring and careful; however, New Jersey has an obligation to protect children as the marijuana market continues to expand.”

New Jersey has seen a significant increase in reports of children ingesting cannabis since it was legalized.  In 2019, there were 73 such reports; in 2022, there were 162.