Switzerland Legalizes the Cultivation, Purchase, and Consumption of Cannabis

A committee in the Swiss Parliament approved on Friday a draft law to legalize the cultivation, purchase, and consumption of cannabis for adults, according to a statement published on its official website.

According to the statement, the Parliament’s Social Security and Health Committee voted on a preliminary bill concerning cannabis products (“marijuana”) during its meeting on Friday.

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The bill received 14 votes in favor, 9 against, while two members abstained from voting.

Lawmakers expect the new legislation to help regulate the cannabis market more effectively to better protect consumers and minors while discouraging consumption.

Additionally, Parliament aims to impose an extra tax on cannabis products to reduce consumption.

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The draft law states that “adults will be allowed to cultivate a maximum of three plants. The sale of cannabis will be strictly monitored by the authorities and will be available for purchase at a number of licensed outlets and online from a single licensed retailer.”

The ban on the distribution and sale of cannabis to minors will remain in place, as will the prohibition on driving under the influence of drugs. The law also aims to tighten penalties for the illegal sale and distribution of cannabis.

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