MAYVILLE, N.Y. (WKBW) — Chautauqua County is taking a stand against the legalization of marijuana.
The County Department of Mental Hygiene would like to remind the community of the negative effects of marijuana. As an organization, it does not support the legalization or use of marijuana due to how it can negatively impact brain function and brain development.
The department states, "Marijuana has not only immediate effects like distorted perception, difficulty problem solving, and loss of motor coordination, but also effects with long-term use such as respiratory infection, impaired memory, and exposure to cancer-causing compounds."
The Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services shares the same opposition to the drug, asking lawmakers to thoughtfully address the concerns of public health entities and the general public. They say that moving too quickly to legalize without considering essential protections can cause a public health crisis.
Those seeking addiction services can call either of the Chautauqua County Behavioral Health Clinics to make an appointment or stop in for emergency services.
