Amendment #23 to H4187

An Act Establishing a Commission to Study the Mental Health Impacts of THC Consumption and Develop Public Health Awareness Campaigns

Mr. Kearney of Scituate moves to amend the bill SECTION X.

Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, there shall be a special commission established to study and make recommendations regarding the mental health impacts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) consumption and the development of public health warning requirements and educational campaigns related to such impacts.

The commission shall examine, but not be limited to:

1 The association between THC use and increased risk of mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, psychosis, and suicidal ideation.

2 The effects of high-potency THC on adolescent and young adult brain development.

3 The feasibility of requiring standardized mental health warning labels on cannabis and cannabis product packaging.

4 The creation and funding of a public health awareness campaign to educate consumers about the mental health risks associated with THC use.

5 The potential imposition of a targeted excise tax or fee on THC-containing products to fund such awareness efforts.

The commission shall consist of the following members:

• The Commissioner of Public Health or their designee, who shall serve as chair.

• The Executive Director of the Cannabis Control Commission or their designee.

• The Commissioner of Mental Health or their designee.

• One member appointed by the President of the Senate.

• One member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

• One member appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

• One member appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

• Two researchers with expertise in cannabis and mental health, appointed by the Governor.

• One representative of a licensed cannabis business in Massachusetts.

• One representative of a mental health advocacy organization.

The commission shall convene its first meeting not later than 60 days after the effective date of this act and shall submit a report of its findings, including any legislative or regulatory recommendations, to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of the Senate no later than 12 months from the date of the first meeting.

Additional co-sponsor(s) added to Amendment #23 to H4187

An Act Establishing a Commission to Study the Mental Health Impacts of THC Consumption and Develop Public Health Awareness Campaigns