Pubdate: Fri, 13 Jun 2014
Source: Philadelphia Inquirer, The (PA)
Copyright: 2014 Philadelphia Newspapers Inc
Contact:  http://www.philly.com/inquirer/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/340
Page: A6

CABINET BACKS EASING OF MARIJUANA LAWS

(AP) - Jamaica's government plans to partially decriminalize
possession of small amounts of marijuana in what supporters call a
long-overdue rethinking of drug laws.

Justice Minister Mark Golding said Thursday that the cabinet was
backing a proposal to make possession of no more than 2 ounces of
marijuana a petty offense that could result in a fine but not a
criminal arrest. The measures are almost certain to clear the
legislature.

Marijuana has been pervasive but outlawed on the island for a
century.

Golding says possession for religious purposes will also be allowed.
Followers of the Rastafari movement smoke marijuana, which they
consider a sacrament.

Golding says legislation would be drafted to provide a path for people
to get criminal records expunged if they have been convicted under the
current law.
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