Truth Initiative Partners With OneOhio to Combat Rising Cannabis Use

Recent data highlights an urgent need for intervention, with 41% of Ohioans now reporting cannabis use, a jump from 35% in 2024. Nearly half of these users report daily consumption, while 67% of residents feel the drug has become more socially acceptable following legalization. This cultural shift has outpaced public understanding of potential safety hazards, particularly for teenagers and pregnant women.

Truth Initiative will deploy its Schroeder Institute to conduct formative research and message testing, tailoring specific outreach strategies for youth, employers, and expectant mothers. Leveraging its background in high-impact public health work—including the award-winning truth® tobacco prevention campaign—the organization plans to replace anecdotal messaging with scientific data. OneOhio Executive Director Alisha Nelson stated the collaboration is vital to providing residents with credible tools to navigate the evolving risks of cannabis use. This initiative is supported by the OneOhio Recovery Foundation, which utilizes pharmaceutical settlement funds to address addiction and long-term public health outcomes.