State Rep. Daire Rendon has introduced a plan to warn expectant and breastfeeding mothers of the harmful effects marijuana use can have on babies.

Rendon, of Lake City, said preliminary research indicates marijuana is able to reach babies in the womb, resulting in low birth weight and harming brain development.

For this reason, both the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advise against marijuana use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

“Studies show that an alarming number of women continue to use marijuana during their pregnancies,” Rendon said. “Placing warning labels on products is a simple solution that will better inform parents of the risks they may not have previously considered.”

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, marijuana is the most common illicit drug used during the course of pregnancies across the country. Roughly half of regular female marijuana users continue to use during pregnancy, and 5 percent of women in the United States have reported using marijuana while pregnant.

Rendon’s solution would label recreational and medical marijuana sold in Michigan in a similar manner as alcohol and tobacco products.

House Bills 4126-27 have been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration.

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