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We thank the Bahamas Christian Council for sharing their views on the Cannabis Bill and Regulations, 2024, just as we were pleased to meet with them during the consultation period to discuss the legislation. Their perspectives are valuable and we share a commitment to the well-being of our community.
We believe that Bahamian people whose illnesses cause pain and suffering that cannot be relieved by other treatments or medications deserve the help of medical marijuana. The primary purpose of this legislation is to provide relief to those suffering from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and other debilitating illnesses. Medical marijuana has been scientifically proven to have significant therapeutic benefits. For many patients, it provides relief when traditional treatments have not worked.
We wish to assure the Bahamas Christian Council and the public that this legislation includes strict regulations and controls to ensure the responsible and safe use of medical cannabis. Only licensed doctors will be able to prescribe cannabis and dispensaries will be strictly regulated.
With regard to the economic opportunities that legalizing medical marijuana will bring to Bahamians, we are committed to ensuring those opportunities are equitably distributed, just as we are committed to supporting small farmers and local businesses and preventing the concentration of the industry in the hands of a few.
A regulated marijuana market can reduce illegal drug activity by providing safe, legal access to drugs for those who need it.
Many jurisdictions in the Caribbean and around the world have not only legalized medical marijuana, as we have, and decriminalized possession of less than an ounce of marijuana, but have gone further (as Dr. Hubert Minnis suggested in his speech to the House of Representatives earlier this week). We have studied and learned from the experiences of many other countries that have gone before us, and our approach is measured, responsible, and does not pose any risk to our reputation.
Legalizing small amounts of marijuana is also a matter of social justice. Too many Bahamians – especially our youth – are denied their chance at freedom because of petty crime. We believe that possession of less than an ounce of marijuana should not limit a person’s ability to contribute positively to society.
Our goal is to reduce youth use of cannabis. This legislation includes strict measures to prevent minors from accessing cannabis. Retail locations will be monitored and public education campaigns will be conducted to educate citizens about the safe use of medical cannabis and the importance of preventing minors from accessing cannabis.
We also respect the cultural and religious practices of the Rastafarians by allowing the sacramental use of cannabis in a controlled and respectful manner. This inclusion both recognizes their traditions while maintaining strict oversight.
The CARICOM report provides a solid basis for our approach, demonstrating that our measures are well-researched and beneficial to the country.
We are committed to providing Bahamians with access to physician-prescribed medical marijuana to ensure public safety, support economic growth, and uphold the values of our communities. We urge Council and all Bahamians to consider the compassionate and evidence-based approach of this legislation, which seeks to alleviate suffering and improve the quality of life for many Bahamians.
July 17, 2024
Ministry of Health and Wellness
Commonwealth of the Bahamas
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