This is a must-read for any legislator, regulator, or decision-maker working on state or local cannabis policy. It is the most comprehensive report I have seen on the current examination and compilation of the practices of state and local governments when it comes to cannabis policymaking. Before any legislator or regulator proposes cannabis policies, they should read this comprehensive report.

This book provides a balanced approach to weighing the challenges and opportunities of using a public health approach to regulate cannabis. It recognizes the complexity of tackling an issue where an all or nothing strategy is not feasible, especially considering the devastating impact that criminalization has had on Black and Brown communities. Public health departments can leverage their expertise in providing data, harm education, health education, and a health equity lens to guide decision-making.

Historic and contemporary drug policies and practices in the US have had a devastating effect on the health, well-being, and economic viability of communities of color. Insights presented in this book examine and anticipate critical public health policy issues about current legalization trends and subsequent increased availability of cannabis. The concepts are important to decision-makers as they grapple with the complex challenges of designing and implementing more equitable approaches to distributing and regulating cannabis in this new era. The authors have also reviewed extensive literature and lessons learned about the health consequences of availability of alcohol in diverse communities. I believe this book delivers a critical, forward-thinking, and future-focused analysis of an emerging public health and equity issue. It is a timely and important contribution.