THE GOVERNMENT OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS IS EMBARKING ON AN EXCITING JOURNEY TO ESTABLISH AND REGULATE THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY IN OUR NATION.
WE INVITE YOU TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR FORWARD-THINKING FRAMEWORK THAT AIMS TO AUTHORIZE THE LEGAL USE AND CONSUMPTION OF CANNABIS FOR MEDICAL, SCIENTIFIC, AND RELIGIOUS PURPOSES.
Our Vision
A Safer, Healthier, and Inclusive Bahamas
At the heart of this legislation is our vision for a safer and healthier Bahamas. Our goal is to protect the health of the public while providing access to cannabis for those who truly need it – medical patients, scientific researchers, and members of the Rastafarian faith. We have carefully considered evidence, drawn from global advancements, to ensure a progressive approach that benefits our citizens.
The Path We've Taken
Informed by Research and Regional Best Practices
Our comprehensive framework is not arbitrary; It’s rooted in research and the findings of the Caribbean Community Secretariat’s 2018 report on cannabis.
We have studied how our peers in Jamaica, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Canada have successfully regulated cannabis. This ensures that our legislation is in line with international best practices and tailored to our unique cultural and legal context.
Stay Informed
Empowering you with knowledge
We understand that informed citizens are empowered citizens. On this page, you’ll find detailed information about the proposed legislation, the different types of licences, eligibility requirements, and safeguards against misuse.
Relief for Bahamians
Safeguards
The Cannabis Bill, 2023 (Clause 4) addresses the issue of controlling public access to cannabis by implementing various measures to ensure responsible usage. These measures include quality assurance protocols, robust monitoring systems, and increased public awareness of potential risks associated with cannabis consumption.
Some examples of these measures are:
- Establishing a maximum permissible THC concentration in a single dose
- Requiring training for medical practitioners who can prescribe cannabis
- Limiting cannabis dispensation to only those qualified professionals
- Allowing Rastafarian leaders to distribute cannabis solely as a sacrament during religious ceremonies
Part VII of the bill outlines several offenses related to cannabis, such as unlawful possession, production, and smoking in public places.
Regarding the issuance of licenses for cannabis use, it will be overseen by the Cannabis Authority, a board-managed corporation.
Protecting Rights and Freedoms
The Rastafarian Faith
We acknowledge the cultural significance of the Rastafarian faith and respect the religious rights of its members.
We have drawn lessons from cases in other Caribbean jurisdictions to ensure that the religious use of cannabis is protected, while also preventing any potential abuse.
The Cannabis Authority
Licensing
There will be a range of licenses available to cater to different aspects of the cannabis industry.
These licenses encompass various segments of the cannabis sector, allowing businesses and organizations to operate legally and responsibly within their designated areas.
CULTIVATION LICENSE
RETAIL LICENSE
ANALYTICAL TESTING LICENSE
MANUFACTURING LICENSE
RESEARCH LICENSE
TRANSPORT LICENSE
RELIGIOUS USE LICENSE
Requirements
Who qualifies for a license?
Individuals:
- Must be citizens of The Bahamas
- Must be at least 21 years old
Entities:
- To apply for a cultivation, retail, transport, or religious use license, the entity must be 100% Bahamian-owned.
- For an analytical testing, manufacturing, or research license, the entity must have at least 30% Bahamian ownership.
Together We Shape
The Future
Join the Conversation!
Your involvement is vital in shaping the future of cannabis regulation in The Bahamas.
We encourage you to participate in our public consultations, engage with us on social media, and stay informed through regular updates on this page.