Lithuanian Parliament Moves Closer to Legalizing Medical Cannabis
Lithuania's Parliament advances medical cannabis legalization with overwhelming support, pending further debate and ministerial approval
Key Points
- 1Lithuanian Parliament votes in favor of medical cannabis legalization
- 292 MPs supported the policy change with one abstention
- 3Current laws classify cannabis under the most restrictive category
- 4Health Minister Aurėlijus Veryga supports a health-focused approach
- 5New law could take effect as early as 2019 if approved
The Lithuanian Parliament has made a significant move towards legalizing medical cannabis. In a vote held recently, 92 members of the Seimas, Lithuania's parliament, expressed overwhelming support for amending the current cannabis policy, with only one abstention and no opposition. This landmark decision, introduced by MP Mykolas Majauskas, aims to open the door for medical cannabis use, a subject that has garnered both public and political backing for the first time in the country's history
Currently, cannabis is classified under Annex 1 of Lithuania's narcotics list, which is the most restrictive category, preventing its medical use due to perceived harmful health effects. The proposed legislation seeks to remove the automatic ban on substances listed in this category, potentially allowing not only medical cannabis but also psilocybin, MDMA, and heroin for medical purposes. This shift in policy reflects a growing recognition of the therapeutic potential of these substances under controlled conditions
The proposal is set to be debated further in the Seimas on December 12. If it passes, it will require the approval of Health Minister Aurėlijus Veryga, who has previously expressed support for the decriminalization of cannabis use and possession, advocating for a health-oriented approach rather than a judicial one. Veryga emphasized the need for a strict regulatory framework to prevent abuse if medical cannabis is legalized
Despite this progressive step, Lithuania still enforces strict penalties for cannabis possession and cultivation. Possession can result in a two-year prison sentence, although fines are more commonly issued. Cultivating cannabis carries a harsher penalty of up to five years in prison. These laws highlight the significant legal hurdles that remain even as the country considers medical cannabis reform
Looking ahead, if the legislative and ministerial approvals are secured, the new law could be implemented as early as 2019. Majauskas has suggested accelerating this timeline due to the strong support demonstrated in the recent vote. This potential change marks a pivotal moment for Lithuania as it aligns with broader European trends towards embracing medical cannabis, reflecting a shift towards more progressive drug policies