Can Taxation be Used to Effectively Limit Young People’s Use of Legalized Marijuana?

Michelle Sovinsky
Profile Picture of - Michelle Sovinsky

Michelle Sovinsky

Abstract information

April 2024 saw Germany joining a growing list of countries which have taken major steps towards the legalization of marijuana. In this video, MICHELLE SOVINSKY considers the extent to which taxation policy can be employed to limit young people’s use of legalized marijuana. Sovinsky explains that marijuana tends not to be used in isolation by young people, but rather in combination with alcohol and cigarettes. Noting that this has not happened in any of the jurisdictions that have legalized marijuana, Sovinsky’s research shows that tax increases on alcohol and cigarettes would be likely to effectively limit young people’s use of marijuana. Further research will explore the impact of marijuana legalization on other products, including opioids.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21036/LTPUB101179

Researcher

Michelle Sovinsky is a Professor of Economics at the University of Mannheim. She also holds research positions at institutions including the Center for Economic Policy Research, the University of Chicago’s Becker Friedman Institute and the German Industrial Economics Society. Having completed her PhD (2022) and MA (1998) at the University of Virginia, Sovinsky has previously worked at the University of Southern California, the University of Amsterdam and the University of Zurich. Sovinsky’s research applies game theoretic modeling and empirical research to policy issues in industrial organization and applied health. Her work reaches a broad as well as a specialist audience, regularly featuring in publications like the Chicago Sun Times, the Guardian and the Economist.

Institution information

University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)

The University of Mannheim is frequently cited as the “Harvard of Germany,” primarily due to its world-class reputation in business administration and economics. Centered within the magnificent Mannheim Palace, one of the largest baroque buildings in Europe, the university provides a unique architectural setting for its academic pursuits. It is highly regarded for its research-driven curriculum and strong ties to the corporate sector, consistently ranking as the top German institution for social sciences and business. With a focused profile and a highly international outlook, it remains a premier destination for future leaders in finance, politics, and academia.
University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)
Cover Photo of - University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)

Original Publication

More than Joints: Multi-Substance Use, Choice Limitations, and Policy Implications

Citation

Michelle Sovinsky, 

Latest Thinking, 

Can Taxation be Used to Effectively Limit Young People’s Use of Legalized Marijuana?, 

https://doi.org/10.21036/LTPUB101179

Credits:

© Michelle Sovinsky 

and Latest Thinking

This work is licensed under CC-BY 4.0