Saint Kitts and Nevis (Caribbean) legalizes medical cannabis and decriminalizes cannabis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a federal state in the Caribbean, located in the Lesser Antilles, consisting of the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis, also known as St. Kitts and Nevis. As part of The Caribbean Community (CARICOM)'s deliberations on cannabis policies, In 2017, the island nation established a National Commission on Cannabis to conduct a national consultation on the issue. After 15 months of work, the Commission members submitted their report to the Cabinet, which accepted all of the recommendations made. Saint Kitts and Nevis is therefore preparing to legalize medical cannabis and decriminalize recreational cannabis use.

Legalization of Medical Cannabis

The legalization of medical cannabis involves the implementation of’a strictly regulated licensing system. The Cabinet plans to establish a regulatory authority specifically dedicated to regulating the import, cultivation, and production of cannabis and, by extension, the issuance of related licenses.

It is also planned that two-thirds of healthcare professionals will complete mandatory training on cannabis. The healthcare professionals in question include physicians who will prescribe cannabis, as well as herbalists who will sell cannabis products without a prescription.

This suggests that the plant itself will be made available to patients in the form of a preparation or simply as flowers. Legalization, therefore, does not apply solely to pharmaceutical products as is the case in other countries. Pharmaceutical products must comply with international standards.

Decriminalization of Recreational Cannabis

Following the Commission’s work, the Cabinet expressed its intention to amend the Narcotics Act to decriminalize the possession of less than 15 grams of cannabis. This offense will now be punishable only by a fine and will not result in a criminal record. In addition, the Cabinet also plans to expunge the criminal records of individuals arrested for offenses related to the possession of cannabis in amounts below this threshold. However, the consumption of cannabis in a public place remains a criminal offense. The Cabinet also plans to introduce penalties for driving under the influence.

When do decisions take effect?

Regarding the legalization of the medical marijuana, nothing has taken effect yet. The government has simply acknowledged the value of the Commission’s recommendations and will take the necessary steps to implement them. It must now develop a legal framework for the industry and draft a bill to be presented to Parliament. This will likely take more than a year.

On the other hand, with regard to decriminalization, the document suggests that it take effect immediately, albeit on an unofficial basis. The same applies to retroactive justice measures. These measures will then be formalized by the Minister of Justice.

The document also mentions the production and trade of hemp. In accordance with the Commission's recommendations, the Cabinet plans to authorize these activities, but under strict legislative oversight, which will also involve a licensing system.