Jamaica, after much debate, has decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
Legislation that passed through both houses of parliament opened the doors for the establishment of a “cannabis licensing authority” that could regulate its use, Sky News reported.
The new regulation gives Jamaicans the legal right to grow up to five marijuana plants per home and to use the drug for religious, medical and therapeutic reasons. Those caught in possession of up to 2 ounces of the drug will only be charged with a petty offense, which doesn’t bring a criminal record, Sky News said.
Meanwhile, Rastafari followers will — for the first time — be given the right to use marijuana freely for their sacramental reasons.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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