The effects of decriminalization of cannabis in Georgia (country) on user behaviors

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background In July of 2018, the Constitutional Court of Georgia ruled that any punishment for cannabis use is unconstitutional. The study aimed to examine changes in the behavior of regular cannabis users following the legal reform. Methods We conducted an online cross-sectional survey of adults using cannabis regularly at least once a week. Results Survey included 389 participants, mostly males whose average age was 28 at the time of the survey. Two thirds did not report any change in frequency of cannabis consumption after the law reform. Less frequent users were more likely to report increased consumption. Females were more likely to initiate cannabis use after the legal reform. Perceived availability of cannabis remained unchanged for the majority of participants. Females were more likely to report that the availability increased following the legal changes. A small number of participants reported quitting synthetic cannabinoids and switching to herbal cannabis products. Getting cannabis for free from friends was the most prevalent way of obtaining cannabis, both in pre- and post-reform periods. Conclusions Future research needs to understand which of the observed changes are linked to health risks or potential benefits, and identify strategies that would prevent negative individual and public health outcomes.