THE Frente Amplio, a left-wing Costa Rican political party, announced a new bill aimed at authorizing the self-cultivation of cannabis. The proposal, defended by MP Ariel Robles, aims to distance consumers from the illicit market and establish a regulated and scientific framework for the personal and domestic cultivation of cannabis.
The incidence of cannabis in Costa Rica
This measure comes in a context where Costa Rica has experienced a significant increase in cannabis consumption. According to data from the VII National Survey on the consumption of psychoactive substances in households aged 12 to 70 years in 2022, carried out by the Institute of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (IAFA), cannabis consumption increased from 32 people per thousand in 2015 to 44 per thousand in 2022, with starting ages of consumption between 12 and 19 years old.
This project also follows the legalization of the industrial use of hemp and medical cannabis in the country in 2022, despite the initial veto of the previous government. Additionally, current President Rodrigo Chaves has expressed support for the legalization of recreational cannabis, although this proposal still faces obstacles in the Legislative Assembly.
Mr. Robles’ initiative aims to establish state control over self-cultivation. The MP emphasizes that this measure will not only provide security for consumption, but will also help to counteract illegal sales.
“The reality in Costa Rica today is that cannabis consumption has increased significantly. This is a reality that we cannot ignore. This is happening and it will continue to happen,” the MP said.El Observador.
THE Frente Amplio proposes regulations that contemplate the authorization of the possession of seeds, as well as the granting of licenses for the cultivation and use of plants, under the supervision of the National Narcotics Council. This project will also focus on people currently cultivating illicitly and seeking to regularize their situation.
