Cannabis-related emergency room visits in New York surged 131% from 2019 to 2023, reaching over 135,000 cases last year, according to USA Today. The sharpest spike came after the 2021 legalization of recreational marijuana, raising fresh concerns about health risks tied to widespread cannabis use.

Experts point to the explosion of illegal pot shops and easy access to marijuana products as major contributors to the rise. Studies, including one from the American Heart Association, highlight serious dangers like heightened risks of heart attacks and strokes among frequent users.

Although Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration cracked down on unlicensed sales, ER visits continued climbing. With more than 360 legal dispensaries now operating, the full impact of legalization on public health will become clearer with 2025 data.