Tag Archive for parliament

Uruguay’s Marijuana Legalization Proposal Sent To Parliament

Photo Legalize Pot, Red, White and Blue. CREDIT Jay Selthefner. SOURCE

From Toke of the Town

By Steve Elliott ~alapoet~ in GlobalLegislationNews

Friday, August 10, 2012 at 2:07 pm
Law Would Make Uruguay First Government In World To Legally Supply Marijuana 

The president of Uruguay on Wednesday submitted a proposal to Parliament to legalize marijuana under government-controlled regulation and sale, making it the first country in the world where the state would sell marijuana directly to its citizens. The proposal, signed by Uruguayan President José Mujica, is part of a package of measures aimed at fighting crime and requires parliamentary approval before being enacted.
Despite Uruguay being one of the safest countries in Latin America, it has faced an increase in crime from drug gangs due to its position on a drug transit route to Europe via West Africa. The aim of the measure is to combat the rising insecurity in Uruguay by removing the profits of marijuana sales from drug gangs, separating the marijuana market from those for other illegal drugs, and avoiding marijuana users’ exposure to drug dealers who also sell coca paste and cocaine. Additionally, the revenues from marijuana sales will be invested into treatment for “problem” drug users. . . . Read Complete Report