Government takes steps to create and regulate cannabis industry

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The government is moving forward with legislation to create and regulate a cannabis industry specifically for medical purposes, as outlined in the 2021 launch of its “Blueprint for Change.”

Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darvill contributed to the debate to this effect in the House of Representatives on Monday 15 July 2024.

He introduced the following compilation of bills into the House of Representatives on May 15, 2024: Cannabis Bill, 2024; Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Bill, 2023; and Pharmacies (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

The Honourable Cynthia Pratt emphasized this goal in her Speech from the Throne upon taking office as Governor General.

The purpose of establishing the industry is to:

• Develop a comprehensive regulatory framework for the cultivation, harvesting and export of cannabis and cannabis products to ensure the industry creates opportunities for Bahamians across the country;
• Ensure that all Bahamians can fully participate in development and have a fair opportunity to become owners in the cannabis industry;
• Develop strong regulations to strictly monitor and minimize the negative impact of the industry on the country’s international reputation;
• Encourage joint ventures in the pharmaceutical industry with internationally renowned partners through the Investment Committee.

Dr Darville said: “The Davis-led Government has once again introduced another major landmark legislation – the Cannabis Bill – and we ask for the full support of both sides of politics.”

The passage of these bills also foreshadows that the government will seek to legalize marijuana and expunge records for small amounts of marijuana; and will eventually establish a Cannabis Authority to serve as an engine to regulate and promote the industry.

“The regulatory framework outlined in these carefully drafted bills is designed to authorise the legal use and consumption of cannabis for medical, scientific and religious purposes,” Dr Darville said.

He added: “We are very aware that governance is ongoing and as a responsible government we have built on the work left by the previous Minnis administration. After two and a half years of consultative work, we believe we have produced a package of legislation that will not only assist Bahamians in obtaining the medical treatment they truly deserve, but will also assist the government in establishing a well-regulated and profitable cannabis industry in the country.”

The measure further seeks to provide a regulated pathway to access cannabis for medical use. It ensures that patients have access to safe, controlled and effective cannabis products that are locally produced and prescribed by licensed physicians and dispensed by pharmacists and other professionals with special cannabis training.

“But let me be clear, these bills before us today are not intended to promote recreational use; these bills are intended to safely provide compassionate care to patients with specific medical conditions within the framework of the rule of law,” he said.

These measures will also address chronic pain, Alzheimer’s disease, sickle cell anemia, chronic autoimmune diseases, anxiety, HIV/AIDS, sleep disorders, mental disorders, autism, cancer and the many other conditions that Bahamians suffer from.

“These cannabis bills come out of listening and are a response to a cry for help that has gone unanswered for too long. These bills will also help to dispel the stigma surrounding cannabis as a legal, legitimate treatment and therapy, and will certainly increase awareness and public education across the country,” said Dr. Darville.

The government is also seeking to remove cannabis from the Dangerous Drugs Act and list it as a controlled substance, recognizing its medicinal value.

Dr Darville explained that the Pharmacies (Amendment) Bill 2023 also plays a “critical role” by setting out protocols for the dispensing of medical cannabis, creating a new category of pharmacy – cannabis pharmacies, which are specifically licensed to handle and dispense cannabis under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

He said the Cannabis Bill, 2024, is the centerpiece of a compilation of bills that seeks to establish a framework for local cannabis production to meet medical needs, create economic opportunities for Bahamians, and ensure the cannabis industry is well-regulated, safe and controlled.

“My department remains committed to the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of this new and exciting medical treatment. Amendments to the Pharmacies and Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities Act will ensure that all medical protocols are met and that medical cannabis is available in pharmacies and treatment facilities across the country,” said Dr. Darville.