Cincinnati Reports Surge in Cannabis-Related Impaired Driving as Ohio’s Recreational Marijuana Program Celebrates Four Months
Cincinnati, OH – As Ohio’s recreational marijuana program reaches its four-month milestone in early December, the state has witnessed substantial sales, totaling over $166.7 million in cannabis products, which includes popular items like gummies and vape pens. However, this growth in the cannabis market is accompanied by a concerning rise in drug-impaired driving incidents.
Ohio State Highway Patrol Capt. Christopher Kinn reported a significant increase in marijuana-related driving impairments, emphasizing that the current legal framework does not impose consequences for drivers refusing to take sobriety tests. To combat this trend, Kinn is advocating for House Bill 230, which would authorize officers to conduct roadside mouth swab tests for suspected drug impairment. Cincinnati’s Fraternal Order of Police leader, Ken Kober, supported this initiative, explaining that the swab process could yield results within 24 hours, providing timely verification of impairment compared to urine or blood tests.
Despite positive results for mouth swab testing in other states like Alabama and Louisiana, it is important to note that these tests differ from alcohol breathalyzers, as THC, the active compound in marijuana, is not easily detectable in breath. Kavita Jeerage, a research engineer at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is exploring the possibilities of breath testing for THC but acknowledges the complexities involved.
With the number of impaired drivers on the rise, swift legislative action on House Bill 230 is becoming increasingly critical for public safety. As lawmakers consider the bill, the collaboration between law enforcement and state representatives highlights a proactive approach to addressing a burgeoning challenge in Ohio’s evolving cannabis landscape.
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