Waco Reporter

U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts have teamed up to introduce a joint concurrent resolution titled "Recognizing the Need for Research, Education, and Policy Development Regarding High-Potency Marijuana," also known as "Randy’s Resolution." The resolution aims to address the urgent need for comprehensive research into the health effects of high-potency marijuana products and advocate for the development of public educational programs. Named in memory of Randy Bacchus Jr., who tragically lost his life due to the use of high-potency marijuana, the resolution comes at a crucial time as states are legalizing marijuana and witnessing a rise in the potency of marijuana products.

Congressman Sessions emphasized the importance of the resolution, stating, “The staggering increase in abuse of potent THC products, and the associated health risks, cannot be ignored.” He expressed pride in working with Senator Ricketts on Randy’s Resolution to promote better safety and mental health among Americans.

Senator Ricketts highlighted the alarming statistics on THC potency, stating, “The average THC potency in marijuana has increased by 287% since 1995, and it’s killing young Americans like Randy Bacchus Jr.” He emphasized the need for government action to combat the harmful effects of high-potency marijuana products flooding the market.

Support for Randy’s Resolution came from the drug policy group Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) and the parents of Randy Bacchus. Former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy, Honorary Chair of SAM, condemned the industry for preying on vulnerable individuals and called for bipartisan action on the public health issue.

Former White House drug policy advisor Dr. Kevin Sabet, President of SAM, commended Senator Ricketts and Rep. Sessions for their proactive stance on the issue. He stressed the need for leaders at all levels to implement potency caps to protect public health from the devastating impacts of high-potency marijuana products.

Heather Bacchus, the mother of Randy Bacchus, shared a poignant message, saying, “Randy’s months-long struggle with psychotic episodes and paranoid delusions didn’t have to happen.” She emphasized the tragic reality of highly industrialized marijuana and called for awareness to prevent other families from experiencing similar losses.