For many years, Jamaica has created an image around the world where marijuana is abundant and smoked freely especially by the Rastafarians. In reality, it remains illegal despite its prevalence unless it can successfully pass a bill that will decriminalize it.
Jamaican officials are currently drafting a bill that seeks to decriminalize cannabis, locally known as ganja. In the proposed draft, Mark Golding, the country's justice minister seeks to give Rastafarians the freedom to smoke the "holy herb" for religious reasons. Moreover, before the year ends, he hopes that lawmakers have already changed to petty offense possession of at most 57 grams of cannabis.
The changes to marijuana use may also open more opportunities for Jamaica, especially in the area of research. Scientists have been working on the medical properties of the plant like how some of its components can be used in treating glaucoma, an eye condition that affects 60 million people around the world. Older people are more susceptible to the disease.
As to why it took a while for Jamaica to decriminalize pot, they cite the fear to violate certain foreign policies particularly those of the United States. However, the country itself has some states seeking or imposing decriminalization. Thus, Jamaica is easing its rules as well.
Nevertheless, Golding wants to make it clear that changing the current law against dangerous drugs is not going to be easy simply because the modifications are complex. It also does not mean that anyone can already get hold of ganja. The ministry is currently working with lawmakers to also create regulations pertaining to the distribution, growth, sale, and use of cannabis, such as the maximum amount of marijuana a person can grow.
Cannabis will remain prohibited among children, and it will never be sold in the black market. The government is also committed in significantly controlling drug trafficking and organized drug crimes.
