Government Survey Data Shows Nearly 20 Percent Decline in Teen Cannabis Use Over Past Decade

LOS ANGELES- Government survey data released today by the US Department of Health and Human Services confirms that state-specific cannabis legalization laws have not negatively impacted teen cannabis use rates.

The latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) from the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reveals that teenagers are significantly less likely to report using cannabis now compared to a decade ago.

According to the NSDUH data, the percentage of individuals aged 12 to 17 who reported ever trying cannabis decreased by 18 percent from 2014 to 2023. The number of teens reporting cannabis use in the past year dropped by 15 percent, while current use fell by 19 percent.

In 2014, Colorado became the first state to regulate the retail sale of cannabis to adults. Today, 24 states, representing over half of the US population, have legalized cannabis use for those 21 and older.

The latest NSDUH report shows a slight year-over-year decline in teen cannabis use.

NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano commented on the federal survey data, saying, “Sensational claims that adult-use legalization laws are linked with greater cannabis use by teens are simply not backed by reliable data. These government findings should reassure lawmakers that cannabis access can be legally regulated in a manner that is safe, effective, and does not inadvertently impact young people’s habits.”

The NSDUH data aligns with previous findings from the US Centers for Disease Control and others, showing steadily decreasing rates of cannabis use among adolescents.

This story first appeared in NORML. Additional information is available from the NORML Fact Sheet, ‘Marijuana Regulation and Teen Use Rates.’