Malta proposes to legalize cannabis

The Maltese government announced its intention to legalize responsible use of cannabis last February. It is now opening its legalization proposals to public consultation.

The Maltese government proposes that :

• Possession of up to 7 grams of cannabis for personal use is legal
• Possession of between 7 grams and 28 grams for personal use is punishable by a fine before an anti-drug court
• Personal possession of cannabis is no longer an arrestable offence, and anyone arrested with such quantities is not questioned by the police.
• Individuals can grow up to four cannabis plants for personal use at home, provided that the plants cannot be seen from outside their home.
• Anyone with a criminal record for simple possession of cannabis will have their record expunged.
• Cannabis consumption to be banned in public spaces, subject to a €233 fine
• Create a legal means for consumers to purchase cannabis and cannabis seeds

The foundations of a legal market

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Prime Minister Robert Abela said that the reforms were aimed at tackling a reality that «has been with us for years but to which no one has responded».

«I've always been clear on this: it's unacceptable for someone arrested with a joint to end up at police headquarters under arrest, and then charged in court.».

In 2015, possession of small quantities of drugs had been decriminalized and was now punishable only by a fine.

«We want a regulated origin where people can buy cannabis and its seeds. I think this will be the key to eradicating the black market, as well as the continued enforcement of existing laws,» a declared Abela.

Penalties for cannabis trafficking will remain unchanged.

Labour MP Rosianne Cutajar, who led work on cannabis reform when she was junior minister for reforms, said the proposals would create a fairer system for responsible cannabis consumers. Maltese citizens can give their ideas on the proposed reforms via the public consultation process, which will run until May 11.