Cans of these products say they are for people over 21, but there is no regulated age to buy them in Wisconsin WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) – You might notice them at the grocery store or gas station, THC beverages are becoming more common across the state of Wisconsin. However, penalties specifically relating to drinking legal THC-infused beverages and driving have not been created.
Despite marijuana still being illegal in the state, drinks containing 0.3 percent or less of Delta 9 THC are considered legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.
However, even under that limit, drivers could still become impaired when over-intoxicated by the drinks.
“THC in that liquid form really does actually get into our body faster through our soft tissues, which can lead to overconsumption,“ Certified prevention specialist Melissa Moore said. ”Adding an increased risk to our health and safety, and when we look at crosses with alcohol or other substances, this can also greatly increase that risk of impairment, especially when someone gets behind the wheel.”
Moore said people never necessarily know how these types of products are going to impact us. THC drinks can cause a variety of changes to things like driving abilities, yet there are still many aspects unregulated by the state.
“This definitely can lead to an increased risk of addiction,” she said. “It can lead to overconsumption and it definitely is something that puts us at a greater risk because it’s not a slow impairment, it’s something that hits you quite quickly.”
Some interest groups have shared their opinions.
“We’re seeing there’s this lack of regulation for these lower, these hemp-infused THC products and I think that’s an emerging area that deserves a lot more attention than it’s probably getting,” Mothers Against Drunk Driving Director of State Government Affairs Frank Harris said. “There’s not a one-stop shop way to stop drug-impaired driving right now.”
Cans may say they only serve people over the age of 21, but there is no age enforced by the state of Wisconsin.“It’s up to all of us, including our parents to be vigilant and make sure these products are used responsibly and safely, if […]
THC drinks can impair drivers, resulting in intoxicated driving penalties
