THC Potency Caps and Cannabis Regulations Public Comment from Leanna TroeshDear Members of the City Council,
I hope this letter finds you well.My name is Leanna Troesh,SWLC,LAC,ICF,and I am writing
on behalf of the Montana Alliance for Prevention and a citizen of Bigfork to request starting a
conversation on the urgent matter of THC potency caps and other critical regulations related to
cannabis products in our city,county,and state.
Ben Cort,who specializes in THC potency through his work with Smart Approaches to
Marijuana (SAM),has been touring Montana and speaking to communities about these
important issues.To kickstart this important dialogue,I propose organizing an opportunity for
Ben Cort or an associate to present to Flathead County city council members,commissioners,
legislators,and citizens on the significant risks associated with high THC potency products,
legalization,and the extreme risk to our youth.This session would serve as a foundation for
informed decision-making as we consider the necessary steps to protect our youth in Flathead
County from the adverse effects of these potent products.
Possible key points to focus on during this meeting could include:
1.Limiting Dispensaries in Counties:Implementing regulations to control the number of
dispensaries in each county to manage the availability of high-potency THC products.
2.Mandating Clear Warning Labels:Ensuring all THC products carry clear and
prominent warning labels to inform consumers of potential risks.
3.Prohibiting Advertisements Aimed at Young People:Enacting strict regulations to
prevent cannabis advertisements that target youth.
4.Prioritizing Prevention Education:Immediately prioritizing prevention education,
especially in schools,to inform and protect our children from the dangers of high-potency
THC.
5.Enacting Strict Potency Caps:Implementing strict potency caps on THC products to
reduce the risk of severe mental health issues and other adverse effects.
6.Enforcing Regulation on Out-of-State Products:Ensuring that THC products
distributed in Montana,such as gummies and sodas,are manufactured within the state
to maintain quality control and regulatory compliance.
Are you aware that Missoula with a population 77,000 has 46 marijuana dispensaries,which is
more than the entire city of Seattle,WA with a population of nearly 750,000 people.What do
you think that says about our community of Evergreen?
The facts surrounding high THC potency use in adolescents are alarming.Research indicates
that high THC use can lead to altered brain development,impaired learning,and a significant
increase in the likelihood of skipping classes and failing to complete assignments.
Consequently,these students are less likely to graduate,costing society approximately
$300,000 per high school dropout in lost tax revenue,increased public welfare,and
incarceration expenses.
Furthermore,the risk of psychosis triples when using products with 15%THC potency or higher.
Additionally,the rise in overdoses,marijuana-related ER visits,and accidental child ingestion is
a growing concern.From 2020 to 2022,marijuana use among Montana's 8th to 12th graders
increased by 18%,with alarming spikes of 353%among 11-year-olds,220%among
13-year-olds,and 253%among 15-year-olds.
Given these concerning statistics,it is crucial that we take proactive steps to mitigate these
risks.I believe that by bringing Ben Cort to Flathead and fostering a collaborative environment
among our legislators,commissioners,council members,and citizens,we can pave the way for
effective and meaningful education and regulations to protect our communities.
I kindly request your support in facilitating this meeting and look forward to working together to
address these pressing issues.Please feel free to contact me at 808-283-3222 or
coach@leannatroesh.com to discuss this proposal further and to arrange the logistics of the
session.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Leanna Troesh,SWLC,LAC,ICF
Counselor,Couch,and Speaker
Smash the Stigma
808-283-3222
coach@leannatroesh.com
www.leannatroesh.com