Our Vision and Mission
We envision a society where public policy related to cannabis and other substances protects health and advances equity in all its forms.
We use scientific research to identify and advocate for cannabis policy that advances public health and equity, prioritizing groups vulnerable to harms, such as youth. We engage and support partners in our work to ensure that government and industry actions align with these priorities.
Strategies We Use:
- Scientific Research
- Policy Design
- Technical assistance to government and community partners
- Key audience education
- Community stakeholder engagement
- Advocacy
- Accountability
What We Do
In most states, cannabis legalization has focused mainly on creating a legal profit-making system rather than putting guardrails in place to promote public health, protect youth, and advance social equity.
We provide technical assstance to jurisdictions that are currently regulating cannabis, considering legalizing or decriminalizing cannabis, and to community partners. We develop and share models for safer and more effective cannabis policy, and provide guidance on policies that can reduce harm and prevent problem cannabis use.
We take an evidence-based approach by carrying out and drawing on scientific research, cannabis policy analyses, and lessons from tobacco and alcohol control.
Please contact Aurash Soroosh for more information.
Have questions?
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Getting it Right from the Start
Public Health Institute
2000 Center Street, Ste 308
Berkeley, CA 94704
P: (510) 344-7221
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We want to hear from you! Please contact Aurash Soroosh for more information or with any questions you have.
Our new scorecard (out next week) shows progress on jurisdictions keeping storefronts smoke-free. But many do allow ...on-site #cannabis use. With #AB1775 signed, the risk of "smoke-filled rooms" is real. Local action is needed to protect clean air! @KTVU
1/Insight editorial by @Susanshapironet in @usnews notes #cannabis craze may be growing, but asks whether we’re ...addressing its #PublicHealth risks? From addiction to impaired driving, rising #THC potency poses dangers. Legalization must prioritize health. https://t.co/m9XaOYsNxs
Data shows rapid rise in daily #cannabis use among young adults & pregnant women. Scientific panel calls on curbing... harms linked to high-#THC products. Many of recommended policies correlate with those in our soon to be released #CannabisPolicy scorecards! https://t.co/BKz7tKUpFs