Upside-down cannabis laws need amendment, Lovell says, for better regulation and more inclusive business opportunities

The Political Leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP) says the country’s cannabis laws, which partially decriminalize the use of marijuana, are upside down.

Harold Lovell says the Browne Administration implemented the legislation without first considering all the implications.

While a person is allowed to possess 15 grammes of marijuana without legal penalty, Lovell notes that he or she clearly has to obtain the drug from someone who possesses more than the legal limit. 

This does not make sense, he says.

The Political Leader believes that amendments to the law will need to be made. These would require a licence to be granted for sale of the drug in a regulated manner and for the payment of taxes to the Government.

Lovell reiterates that the country’s emerging cannabis industry does not treat fairly with those who are not rich.

He says that a new environment needs to be created, so those who are interested in the sector can benefit not only from growing the product – but by getting involved in the manufacturing sector, as well.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Gaston Browne said last Saturday, July 9, that consideration will be given to decriminalising a larger quantity of cannabis. But critics say this appears to be just another political move to garner votes.

According to teachers, counselors and some police officers, the partial decriminalization of 15 grammes has already caused havoc among the Nation’s youth, many of whom use the drug indiscriminately.

Several schools have complained that students have become out of hand, and fights and other bad behaviours have increased exponentially these past few years.