Physicians Speak Out Against Legalizing Marijuana

Members belonging to six of Vermont's largest physician organizations are urging lawmakers in the state not to legalize marijuana this year.

Vermont Public Radio reports the doctors gathered Thursday at the Vermont Statehouse in Montpelier to argue that much more research is needed before considering the drug's legalization.

The collective included members of the Vermont Medical Society, the Vermont Academy of Family Physicians and the Vermont Psychiatric Association.

The physicians say studies suggest that young people who smoke marijuana regularly are at a higher risk to develop mental problems and anxiety disorders.

Dr. David Rettew says we don't really know what the harms of marijuana might be or how legalization might affect its use.

The Senate Judiciary committee is scheduled to vote on a legalization bill on Friday.