A bill to provide the legal framework for a medical marijuana industry in the country, the Cannabis Bill, 2024 was tabled in the House Of Assembly on Wednesday by Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville.

The objective of the proposed legislation is to “set up a framework to establish The Bahamas Cannabis Authority and to regulate the of importation, exportation, cultivation, processing, manufacturing, producing, sale, possession, distribution and use of cannabis.”

While tabling the bill Dr. Darville told Parliamentarians, “the introduction of the medical cannabis bills comes from a place of listening. A response to the cries of those who have been waiting for years for unanswered questions. We have consulted widely, engaging with experts and community leaders to ensure our approach is balanced and informed.”

He went further stating, “the legislative package, the Cannabis Bill, 2024 is designed to introduced a controlled system of cannabis use in medical treatments. The bill establishes the Bahamas Cannabis Authority. A regulatory body overseeing all aspects of cannabis management and cultivation and distribution. The authority’s mandate is to ensure that cannabis production and use are safe, controlled and effectively integrated into our health care system.”

The Minister also tabled the Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill, 2023 that he said “reclassifies cannabis by removing it from the dangerous drug list and recognizing its potential for medical use. This change aligns our nations laws with evolving global perspectives on cannabis.”

The legislation also includes provisions for the licensing of cannabis handlers across various aspects of the country and categories. Darville said, “the licensing is structured to prioritize Bahamian ownership with provisions ensuring that significant control remains in the hands of Bahamian nationals fostering local entrepreneurship and economic benefits for Bahamians across the country.”

Minister Darville along with Attorney General, Sen. Hon. Ryan Pinder announced the government’s intention to introduce medical marijuana legislation at a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister in August 2023.

The post HOA: Cannabis Bill appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.