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Multiple speakers raised concerns about increased cannabis access leading to negative youth health outcomes including addiction, mental illness symptoms, and brain development impacts. Speakers cited statistics about teen addiction rates and referenced the case of a local teen whose death they linked to cannabis use.

Speakers expressed concern about having too many cannabis dispensaries in Richmond, comparing it to existing alcohol outlet oversaturation. One speaker noted the lack of specific numbers for planned cannabis licenses during community forums.

Speakers argued that while they support economic equity initiatives, the cannabis equity program focuses only on economic benefits while potentially harming community health equity. They noted that wealthier communities don't have cannabis dispensaries while Richmond would have more.