CHP

CHP to Step Up Anti-Drugged Driving Enforcement for 4/20

"Cannabis, prescription drugs and illegal drugs all can impair driving. Driving is a complex task, and any drug can slow reaction time."

Photo by David McNew/Getty Images

California Highway Patrol officers in southwest Riverside County and elsewhere are planning increased patrols Tuesday to snare cannabis users who celebrate the unofficial marijuana "holiday'' of 4/20 by getting high and driving.

"Alcohol is not the only substance that can lead to an arrest for driving under the influence," said CHP Officer Mike Lassig, spokesman for the agency's Temecula-area station. "Cannabis, prescription drugs and illegal drugs all can impair driving. Driving is a complex task, and any drug can slow reaction time."

The date, April 20, has become synonymous with recreational marijuana-based drug use and is commonly referred to as either "four-twenty" or "Weed Day." The Grateful Dead helped popularize the phrase.

The annual celebration has become more widespread with the legalization of marijuana in California and other states.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has provided grants, administered and distributed by the California Office of Traffic Safety, to cover overtime and other expenses tied to 4/20 law enforcement operations statewide.

Copyright CNS - City News Service
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