ALBANY, Ore. — Linn County officials are reminding parents of all middle- and high- school students that marijuana remains illegal for minors, even though adults can now buy it in stores.

Juvenile Department Director Torri Lynn told county commissioners Tuesday that about 8,500 letters were mailed to parents.

The letter says children are susceptible to peer pressure and have constant access to friends through social media. It says children found in possession of marijuana or under the influence will be referred to authorities.

The Albany Democrat-Herald reports that the letter says 53 percent of children referred to the Juvenile Department for marijuana possession are between 13 and 15 years old.