Chilean Opposition Pushes for Cannabis Decriminalization Bill Revival
Chilean opposition members push to revive a cannabis decriminalization bill, aiming to reduce black market influence and promote individual freedoms
Key Points
- 1Chilean opposition seeks to revive cannabis decriminalization bill
- 2The bill aims to allow personal cultivation and reduce black market influence
- 318 deputies from various parties signed a petition supporting the bill
- 4The initiative coincides with national debates on narcotrafficking
- 5The bill had previously passed the Chamber of Deputies but remains stalled
In a significant move, Chilean opposition members have taken a stand to revive a stalled cannabis decriminalization bill. Originally introduced in 2014 by Liberal Party Deputy Vlado Mirosevic, the bill aims to decriminalize all uses of cannabis. Despite initial progress, the legislation has been stuck in the Health Commission for years. Recently, 18 deputies from various political backgrounds signed a petition urging the bill's reconsideration, signaling a renewed push for change
The timing of this initiative coincides with a national debate on narcotrafficking and corruption, sparked by revelations from Army Commander-in-Chief Ricardo Martínez about military involvement in arms sales to drug traffickers. The bill proposes to allow personal cultivation of cannabis, providing an alternative to the black market and potentially reducing the power of drug traffickers. Its proponents argue that such measures could significantly impact the illegal drug trade in Chile
The proposed legislation also emphasizes individual freedoms, suggesting that adults should have the right to use cannabis without being criminalized. With cannabis consumption already prevalent in Chile, supporters argue that the current legal framework unjustly labels users as criminals. Former Chilean President supported the bill in 2014, citing a dramatic increase in drug-related arrests over the years as evidence of the need for reform
Under the proposed law, individuals would be permitted to possess up to 10 grams of cannabis for personal use and cultivate up to six plants within a specified area. Patients seeking medicinal cannabis would require a doctor's prescription, and minors could consume cannabis under adult supervision with parental consent. The bill had previously passed the Chamber of Deputies but has since been stalled, awaiting further legislative action
The revival of this bill reflects a broader trend in Latin America toward cannabis reform, with countries like Mexico and Argentina making strides in legalization and regulation. As Chile revisits its cannabis policies, the outcome could influence regional approaches to drug laws. The renewed push for this legislation highlights a growing recognition of the need to address drug policy through a public health and human rights lens