Cannabis

Awareness is Key

• Know the Risks of Cannabis
• Five Signs of Cannabis Addiction
• The Links between Cannabis and Schizophrenia
• Short Term Effects of Cannabis
• The effects from cannabis can vary depending on how it is consumed. To learn more, visit Be in the Know
• Illegal, look-alike THC-filled snacks are being found in our state. Read Attorney General Tong’s press release to find out what’s being done.
• Cannabis Facts for Teens – Some Things to Think About

Know the Law Regarding Cannabis Use

Cannabis use is legal in Connecticut for adults aged 21 and older. They may possess up to 1.5 ozand may store up to 5 oz in a locked container, either at home or in a trunk or glove box during travel. Individuals may grow three mature and three immature plants for  medical and recreational use, with a limit of 12 plants per household.

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to buy, use, or possess cannabis, and it is prohibited to bring it across state lines. Supplying cannabis to anyone under the age of 21 is a criminal offense, punishable by up to one year in prison. Adults are responsible for any underage use of cannabis in their home, regardless of whether they are aware of or present when its use occurs.

Cannabis and the Workplace

Employers may continue to prohibit employees from possessing and/or using cannabis during work hours, on employer premises, and/or while using the employer’s equipment.

If the employer has a written policy, it also may prohibit cannabis use even when employees are off the clock. Furthermore, it can opt to drug-test job applicants. Some industries are exempt from these written policy requirements. Learn more.

Find additional information about Connecticut’s cannabis laws, how cannabis impacts health, guidelines for families, and signs of problem use by visiting Be In the Know CT.

Safe Storage and Disposal

Cannabis is toxic to young children and pets and it is especially important to store and dispose of it properly. To receive free cannabis lockboxes, contact us.

Storage

• Out of sight, out of reach: Cannabis should be stored in a locked and secure place, such as a safe or lock box.
• Keep cannabis in its original packaging with labels, which provides vital information regarding THC content. Labeling is essential  for edible products that look like treats to kids. 
• Keep a list of all cannabis products in your home so you can quickly inform medical responders if accidental ingestion occurs.

Disposal

• Cannabis waste should be mixed with an inert substance, such as coffee grounds or kitty litter, to make it unusable. The waste mixture should be placed in a sealed container, such as an empty yogurt cup, and thrown away in the regular trash. 
• Empty and clean cannabis containers can be recycled or thrown in the trash. 
• Do not flush cannabis products or containers down the toilet or sink. Its harmful chemicals can leach into groundwater supplies and reservoirs.

Signs of Accidental Ingestion

Accidental ingestion can occur when someone, typically children or pets, consume cannabis without knowing they are doing so. Warning signs include:

• Sleepiness (common in children)
• Dizziness
• Problems with coordination
• Agitation
• Confusion
• Higher than normal heart rate
• Nausea and vomiting
• Slurred speech

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In more serious cases, accidental ingestion in children can cause breathing trouble, seizures, and neurological problems. If ingestion is suspected, it is important to seek medical treatment immediately.

If the person stops breathing, is unresponsive, or can’t walk or sit up, call 911. Then, call the Connecticut Poison Control Center  at 1-800-222-1222, even if an ambulance is on the way.