California State Auditor backs Youth Forward recommendations on cannabis marketing to kids

Since 2018, Youth Forward and the Getting It Right from the Start project at the Public Health Institute have teamed up to raise awareness of how the cannabis industry is using packaging, flavors and other methods to attract children and young people to cannabis products. We have sponsored legislation which has garnered strong opposition from cannabis industry lobbyists and which has consistently been watered down by legislative leaders. One legislator who has been a strong champion of protecting children from predatory marketing is Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin. Ms. Irwin requested that the state auditor look into industry practices related to marketing and kids. Last August the auditor released its report that shows how the state and the Department of Cannabis Control are failing to enforce existing laws and regulations to protect kids. In the report, the auditor also lifts up examples from other states that are doing a better job than California and puts forward recommendations. To review the report, click here. We wish to thank Assemblymember Irwin for her ongoing leadership in this area.