The government of the Bahamas has recently proposed several bills with the aim of legalizing marijuana for religious and medicinal purposes, as well as decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of the drug. This move is expected to not only cater to the religious practices of certain communities but also boost the islands’ tax revenues.
If these bills are approved, licenses for the cultivation, transport, and sale of marijuana for religious or medical purposes will be issued to Bahamian-owned companies. Additionally, licenses for cannabis research, testing, and manufacturing will be granted to companies that are at least 30% Bahamian-owned. This approach seeks to ensure that the benefits of these industries remain within the country.
While the sale of marijuana for recreational purposes will continue to be illegal, the penalties for possessing small amounts of the drug will be significantly reduced. Those caught with less than 30 grams will face a fine of $250 and will not receive a criminal record. Currently, possession of marijuana can lead to a fine of up to $500,000 or a 30-year prison term.
Attorney General Ryan Pinder has emphasized that individuals using marijuana for spiritual purposes will only be allowed to do so on the premises of a licensed religious organization. This provision recognizes the religious practices of small communities, such as Rastafarians, for whom the smoking of cannabis is a principal sacrament.
The Bahamas is not alone in reconsidering its stance on marijuana. In 2018, the heads of 19 Caribbean nations, including Barbados, Haiti, and Jamaica, agreed to review the current classification of marijuana. Since then, Antigua and Jamaica have decriminalized personal use of the drug, and the US Virgin Islands have authorized recreational and religious use.
To ensure transparency and public participation, Pinder has announced that public hearings on these bills will be held in September. If all goes according to plan, the legislation could be approved before the end of next year.
This progressive step by the Bahamian government reflects the growing global acceptance and recognition of the potential benefits of marijuana. By allowing its use for religious and medicinal purposes and decriminalizing possession, the Bahamas hopes to not only respect the religious practices of its citizens but also stimulate economic growth through the marijuana industry. This move aligns with the broader trend of countries reevaluating their marijuana policies and embracing a more nuanced approach to its regulation.
Overall, the legalization of marijuana for religious and medicinal use, as well as the decriminalization of possession, holds promise for the Bahamas, both in terms of social inclusivity and economic development. As the legislation moves through the approval process, public engagement will play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome.
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