Overview
Arizona state senators approved measures to criminalize ‘excessive’ marijuana levels while driving, establishing impairment thresholds for cannabis-intoxicated driving. The legislation represents the evolving challenge of setting scientifically valid DUI standards for cannabis, as THC metabolites persist in the body long after impairment fades. Unlike alcohol’s well-established BAC limits, cannabis impairment testing remains controversial—blood THC levels don’t reliably correlate with actual impairment. The bill balances public safety with protecting lawful cannabis users from unfair prosecution based solely on metabolite presence.
Clinical Perspective
ARIZONA’S CANNABIS DUI CHALLENGE
Senators approved ‘excessive’ marijuana DUI measures—wading into one of the most complex cannabis policy challenges. Blood THC doesn’t correlate with impairment like BAC does for alcohol. Metabolites persist for days/weeks after effects end.
Arizona’s bill establishes an ‘excessive’ threshold rather than zero-tolerance. Whether the level accurately reflects impairment is debatable. The field needs behavioral testing, saliva screening, and improved roadside tools. Political pressure to ‘do something’ often outpaces the science for doing the right thing.
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