California Office of Traffic Safety Awards Drugged Driving Grant to the County of Monterey Health Department for Cannabis Education Program

The County of Monterey Health Department announced on Tuesday, December 16 that they are the recipient of a $168,862 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support its Cannabis Education Program in the Public Health Bureau. The grant will fund community educational outreach and coordinated strategies focused on college-aged youth and young adults to prevent fatalities and injuries as a result of driving while under the influence of cannabis or cannabis and alcohol.

"We are honored to receive this grant, which will strengthen our initiatives to prevent drug-impaired driving and support safer communities,” said Elaine Narciso, Health Program Coordinator, County of Monterey Health Department. “By providing education and raising awareness among college students and young adults, we aim to prevent cannabis-impaired driving and reduce related crashes and injuries. We’re committed to shifting community norms and promoting responsible driving behaviors." According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cannabis is the second most often substance associated with impaired driving, following alcohol. Cannabis use can slow reaction time, decrease the ability to make quick decisions, and reduce coordination, leading to poor outcomes on our roadways.

Grant funds will support a comprehensive set of strategies aimed at reducing driving under the influence of cannabis or cannabis and alcohol, including:

Education and outreach events designed to inform and engage community members on the risks and consequences of drug-impaired driving

Strategic partnerships with local bars and cannabis dispensaries to promote responsible use practices and raise awareness among young adults aged 21 and over

Collaborative outreach efforts at local colleges to educate students and reinforce safe driving behaviors

“Through a comprehensive educational approach, we’re working toward a future where everyone will be safe on California roads,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “By encouraging people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together.”

Grant funded activities will run through September 2026.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

For more information, visit https://www.countyofmonterey.gov/government/departments-a-h/health/public-health/cannabis-education.

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