Cannabis (also called marijuana or weed) is a plant that has a chemical called THC. THC is what makes you feel “high." Cannabis is legal for adults 21 years and older in Minnesota.
People use cannabis in different ways:
- Smoking or vaping cannabis: Effects start in minutes.
- Eating edibles or drinking cannabis products: Effects can take up to two hours.
Dakota County created printable cannabis fact sheets:
Facts About Cannabis & THC Products handout (Spanish)
Facts for Parents and Caregivers About Cannabis and THC Products handout (Spanish)
Cannabis health impacts
Cannabis affects everyone differently. Cannabis can:
- Worsen some mental health conditions.
- Interact with medications you take.
- Be addictive. The risk is higher for people who start using it at a younger age.
Learn more on the Minnesota Department of Health's Cannabis and Your Health webpage.
Safe cannabis storage guidelines
It is important to store cannabis products securely. Some edibles look like candy or snacks, which can be appealing to children.
Follow cannabis safe storage guidelines:
- Store products in their original, child-resistant packaging and keep labels on.
- Keep products in secure and locked places.
- Store edibles separate from food.
- Make sure products are out of sight and reach of children and pets.
- Always store cannabis products in the trunk when transporting them in a car.
Read the Minnesota “Open Package Law" for more information about carrying cannabis products in a motor vehicle.
Download these safe storage documents:
Cannabis impacts on pregnancy and kids
Cannabis is not safe for babies and infants. Cannabis can harm your baby's brain and increase the risk of pregnancy problems.
- Cannabis can pass to your baby during pregnancy and through breast milk.
- Some cannabis chemicals can stay in your milk even after you stop use. Pumping and dumping breast milk is not effective.
- Talk to your doctor about cannabis alternatives during pregnancy.
The Minnesota Department of Health created a fact sheet about what to know for you, your baby, and young children.
If children consume cannabis products, they can become very sick. Common symptoms include confusion, drowsiness and trouble breathing.
If a child eats or drinks a cannabis product, call the free Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Call even if the child isn't showing symptoms.
Responsible cannabis usage tips
If you choose to use cannabis products, please:
- Smoke or vape outside and away from children.
- Buy products from licensed retailers.
- Practice “low and slow" with edibles. Begin with low doses and wait at least two hours before eating more.
- Avoid using cannabis while under the influence of other substances, like alcohol.
- Don't drive. Driving while impaired is illegal. If you need to travel after using cannabis, walk, take a bus or have someone drive you. The Office of Traffic and Safety has additional information.
Additional cannabis resources
Learn more about cannabis: