New Zealand: the new government wants medical cannabis in 100 days

This week's announcement of a A vote on the legalization of cannabis in New Zealand by 2020 has somewhat overshadowed another initiative by the New Zealand government: to legalize medical cannabis in the coming weeks.

«The Labor Party is committed to legalizing medical cannabis within the first 100 days,» said Green Party spokesperson Julie Anne Genter. «As you know, we have a bill on the medical use of cannabis. I hope that, in practice, the government will choose to move forward with it.».

Regarding the upcoming referendum on the recreational use of cannabis, Genter explained that it will indeed be a vote in which New Zealanders can approve or reject the idea. «The specifics of the question will be very important, and the Prime Minister has indicated that there will be public consultations on the matter.»

«I believe the other party in the governing coalition, New Zealand First, was also interested in a referendum on cannabis use. I think all three parties will contribute to this, and there will be public input on the issue itself and on the timing of the referendum.».

The latest polls show that New Zealanders are generally in favor of reforming cannabis laws, with 83% supporting the legalization of medical cannabis and 65% supporting the decriminalization or legalization of cannabis.

Genter would like to see a «legal and regulated market that would allow people to grow cannabis in New Zealand and consume it responsibly.».

«I'm currently eager to see what Canada will do. I think the results of the reform of Canadian laws will be very relevant to New Zealand.».