Barbados, a Caribbean island nation, has seen its cannabis laws evolve in recent years, reflecting a global shift in approach to the plant. This evolution has introduced a nuanced legal landscape, moving away from outright prohibition towards regulated medical use and decriminalization for minor possession. Understanding these specific regulations is important for anyone seeking to navigate the current legal status of cannabis within the country.
Current Legal Status of Cannabis in Barbados
Cannabis in Barbados is not fully legal for recreational use. Its legal status is complex, involving decriminalization for small amounts and full legalization for medical and sacramental purposes. The legal framework includes the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill and the Sacramental Cannabis Bill, both passed in November 2019. Amendments to the Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Act, Cap. 131, in 2020 and 2021, introduced a fixed penalty system for minor offenses.