Uruguay allows the recreational use of cannabis. The law, which entered into force on Tuesday, May 6, remains strict and protects public health.
Cannabis, yes, but not at any price. In his fight against drug trafficking, Uruguayan President José Mujica has taken the lead. Followed by Parliament, last December he signed a law legalizing the trade and consumption of cannabis. The law which entered into force on May 6 is intended to be more flexible, while protecting public health.
An institution dedicated solely to the control of cannabis has been created; the Institute of Regulation and Control of Cannabis (IRCCA) will be responsible for issuing authorizations to manufacturers, traders and users. Because only adult citizens registered in a user registry can buy cannabis. The sale is reserved for pharmacies approved by the IRCCA. At the production level, Uruguay limits licenses to the number of 6. Producers will be subject to strict regulations, which aim to ensure the marketing of quality marijuana.
No more than 40g per month per person
The quantity itself will be strictly regulated. Uruguay caps the dose at 40 grams per month per person. On the plantation side, a citizen can own up to 6 plants – or 480 grams – for his personal consumption. An association of smokers, between 15 and 45 people, will be limited to a maximum of 99 plants.
The law also includes restrictions on the consumption of cannabis. Like tobacco, it is forbidden to smoke it in enclosed spaces, public transport and places. Like alcohol, the driver will have to limit its use. Moreover, the text of the law provides for controls at the wheel, which will measure the level of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, active substance of cannabis).
As for therapeutic cannabis, it is not yet included in the law. It will be the subject of a future text, the government announced at a press conference.
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