Saint Lucia unveils bill to legalize cannabis this year

The Caribbean island of Saint Lucia has unveiled a draft bill that sets out the rules governing the cultivation, processing, and sale of cannabis-based products, with a view to legalizing them this year.

Emma Hippolyte, Minister of Commerce of the small Caribbean island, said she expected the bill to be introduced in Parliament and enacted by the end of the first quarter of 2025, barring any unexpected feedback during the public consultation period, which is currently underway and will end on February 7.

The proposed measure, which aims to address past injustices, support marginalized communities, and create new economic opportunities within a regulated cannabis industry, is based on input from advocacy groups, religious communities, and the general public on the island.

A Model Cannabis Bill

In the heart of the bill of law is the Cannabis Advisory Council, which is responsible for advising regulatory authorities. Composed of experts from various fields, including medicine, pharmacy, and business, this council ensures that the objectives of the law are consistent with priorities related to public health, commerce, and safety. In particular, it is responsible for defining eligible medical conditions, regulating THC limits, and overseeing industry practices.

Licensing Framework and Activities

The bill contains detailed provisions regarding the licensing of various activities in the cannabis and hemp sectors. The licenses cover cultivation, processing, distribution, research, and retail sales. In particular, it distinguishes between Class 1 medical cannabis (with a THC limit equivalent to that of hemp) and Class 2 medical cannabis (cannabis products), with stricter regulations for more potent products available only by prescription.

In addition, the legislation provides exemptions for traditional farmers, which allows for the preservation of historical practices while ensuring a transition to a regulated industry.

Provisions Regarding Amnesty and Pardons

Recognizing past criminalization, the bill provides for amnesty measures. Individuals involved in the cultivation or possession of cannabis for noncommercial purposes will be able to apply for a certificate of amnesty during specified periods. The goal is to reduce the societal impact of prior criminal records while encouraging participation in the formal industry.

Central Business Entity and Market Regulation

To streamline distribution and maintain quality standards, the bill introduces the concept of a central commercial entity. Limited to two entities at a time, these organizations are granted exclusive rights to distribute medical cannabis. This centralization aims to mitigate the risks of illegal diversion and unregulated sales while facilitating transparency and oversight.

Public Health and Safety Measures

The legislation emphasizes public health and safety by prohibiting the use of synthetic cannabinoids and by establishing strict rules regarding the sale of cannabis to people under the age of 21. Consumption is restricted in public places, and limits on personal possession help prevent abuse. In addition, the regulations require proper labeling and the inclusion of a cannabis tax stamp to identify legal products.

Economic Opportunities and Incentives

Recognizing the the economic potential of cannabis and industrial hemp, the bill provides incentives for licensed operators. These benefits range from tax breaks to subsidies aimed at encouraging innovation and ensuring sustainable growth in the sector. In addition, a tax on cannabis and hemp will be levied on products, which will help generate revenue for the government while encouraging compliance with regulations.

Penalties and Violations

The bill sets out clear penalties for offenses, including the cultivation of cannabis near schools, excessive possession, and unauthorized sales. Offenses punishable by a fine provide an alternative to severe penalties and emphasize education and deterrence rather than criminalization.

A Rastafarian leader is delighted

Aron Alexander, president of the Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari (ICAR), hailed this development as an important milestone.

«It took us 50 years to get to this point—50 years of advocacy, protests, and pressure on politicians to address the issue of the decriminalization and legalization of cannabis,» said the Rastafari leader at the St. Lucia Times.

«We have been brutalized, imprisoned, murdered, and our livelihoods have been destroyed because of prohibition. Although we do not seek to benefit disproportionately from it, we must be key players in this new system.».

ICAR’s advocacy efforts led to an agreement with the government to create a development fund dedicated to the Rastafari, funded by a percentage of tax revenue from cannabis.

Relaxation of drug laws

Historically, Saint Lucia has imposed strict penalties for cannabis-related offenses under the Dangerous Drugs Act (Dangerous Drugs Act). Possession, even in small quantities, could result in heavy fines and a prison sentence, while cultivation and trafficking were punishable by even harsher penalties, including long prison terms and substantial fines.

These laws have had a disproportionate impact on marginalized groups, particularly the Rastafari community, whose religious and cultural practices include the use of cannabis.

Juvenile offenders also face long-term consequences, such as criminal records that limit their employment and travel opportunities. These law enforcement practices have contributed to prison overcrowding and fueled public criticism.

In recent years, Saint Lucia has changed its approach cannabis reform, recognizing the social and economic costs of these harsh penalties. Public opinion, advocacy by the affected communities, and global trends have prompted the government to adopt more flexible policies, including the decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis and, soon, the development of a regulated cannabis and hemp industry.

Saint Lucia is receiving support through the Canada-CARICOM (CCEDM), which seeks to strengthen Canada's bilateral economic relations with the Caribbean, as well as Canada's presence in the Americas.