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1. Is it true that cannabis is stronger now than it was years ago?

Yes. The way cannabis plants are grown has changed over the past few decades. Plants now contain higher amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in cannabis. The higher the THC content, the stronger the effects on your brain and behavior. Newer methods of using cannabis like dabbing, vaping, and eating edibles may also result in you taking in higher levels of THC.

2. What should I know about consuming edibles safely?

When you smoke or vape cannabis you may feel the effects quickly, but it can take between 30 minutes and two hours to feel the effects of edibles like cookies, sodas, and ice cream. Start with less than a single serving (less than 10 milligrams of THC), then wait before using more. It is important to know about the delayed effects of edibles because if you eat too much too quickly, you are at greater risk of poisoning.

3. What should I do to keep children and pets safe?

Store all cannabis products in a locked area. Make sure children cannot see or reach the locked area. Keep cannabis in child-resistant packaging from the store. Keep cannabis out of reach of pets too. Cannabis affects children more strongly than adults. Children are at higher risk for cannabis poisoning, especially from edibles. If you think a child may have ingested cannabis, call the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222. If you think a child needs immediate medical help, call 911. If you think your pet may have eaten cannabis, call your veterinarian.

4. Is it possible to overdose on cannabis?

A fatal overdose is unlikely. However, smoking or eating high concentrations of THC can affect your judgment, perception, and coordination, and may lead to injuries like poisoning or car crashes.

5. Can secondhand cannabis smoke affect nonsmokers and children?

Yes. Secondhand cannabis smoke contains THC and many of the same toxins and chemicals found in tobacco smoke. These toxins can be harmful to those around you, especially babies and children.

6. Will cannabis affect my driving?

Yes. Cannabis can negatively affect the skills you need to drive safely, including reaction time, coordination, and concentration. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and increases your risk of getting into a car crash. If you are under the influence of cannabis while operating a car, boat, or other vehicles, a law enforcement officer can pull you over and conduct a sobriety test.

7. Can I use cannabis?

You can legally use cannabis if you are 21 or older. You can also use cannabis if you are 18 or older and have a current qualifying physician's recommendation or a valid county-issued medical marijuana identification card.

8. What about medical cannabis use?

Use of medicinal cannabis is legal if you have a current qualifying physician's recommendation or a valid county-issued medical marijuana identification card. To buy medicinal cannabis, you must be 18 or older and have either have current qualifying physician's recommendation, a valid county-issued medical marijuana identification card or be a Primary Caregiver as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 11362.7(d). With a MMIC, you can possess up to eight ounces of dried cannabis and up to six mature or 12 immature cannabis plants. With a physician's recommendation, you may only possess what the "patient" can consume medically, which is indicated in the recommendation. With a valid county-issued MMIC, you do not have to pay sales tax when you buy cannabis, but you may have to pay other taxes.