December 6, 2018
Vermont is the ninth state to legalize marijuana and the first state to do it through the state legislature. Adults 21 years and older may now legally possess and use marijuana. You should familiarize yourself with the law, however, so you do not believe you are given carte blanche to grow as much as you wish, possess as much as you wish, and smoke it wherever you wish. Read the law here.
You should also understand its health risks. At West River Valley Thrives we focus primarily on prevention education for our youth, and for responsible use of legal substances among adults of legal age. This short letter from Nora D. Volkow, M.D., Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, highlights important points on marijuana use we should all consider. Read it here. There are also many more useful resources you can find through links on this same page.
Be informed, be mindful of the sources of your information, be responsible, and as a parent remember you are the #1 influence on your children. Keep the communication channels open, stay engaged, ask questions, and let your children know they can voice their questions and concerns to you in a safe and supportive environment.
Steve Tavella
Director
West River Valley Thrives