It was a big week for cannabis policy modernization efforts in Grenada. The Caribbean nation is comprised of a main island and smaller surrounding islands, and its parliament approved a measure that significantly overhauls the country’s cannabis laws.

“Grenada’s Parliament has passed legislation amending the country’s marijuana laws, decriminalising cannabis for adults and laying the groundwork for a regulated medicinal and therapeutic cannabis industry.” reported Caribbean National Weekly in its local coverage. “The legislation provides amnesty and automatic expungement of criminal records for minor cannabis offences and discontinues pending proceedings for specified small amounts. It also affirms the constitutional rights of the Rastafari community to use cannabis as a sacrament within registered places of worship and at special events, with allowances for cultivation.”

“Under the law, adults aged 21 and over may possess up to 56 grams of cannabis and 15 grams of cannabis resin, and register to cultivate up to four plants per household for private use.” the outlet also reported.

In addition to the previously described reforms, Grenada’s government is planning to develop a “comprehensive national cannabis policy framework” in the coming months, and the framework will include new policies for cultivation, processing, research, and medicinal use. Public cannabis consumption will remain prohibited in Grenada, and supplying cannabis to youth will result in significant criminal penalties.

“Grenada is one of the last jurisdictions to now move in the direction of the decriminalisation of cannabis and ultimately the establishment of a medical cannabis industry.” stated Attorney General Senator Claudette Joseph, according to reporting by Trinidad & Tobago Guardian.

“Our policy of decriminalisation will be peered with strike regulations to protect the youths and accompanied by a robust public education campaign and a strong enforcement against intoxication while driving medical use remains controlled and recreational use as per this Bill is not permitted. The Government prioritises health and safety over short term economic gains.” added Health Minister Phillip Telesford.