Legalizing marijuana is already in progress as Uruguay was reported to allow pharmacies to sell cannabis. The said move made the South American country as the first to do so.
According to Independent, Uruguay allowing pharmacies to sell marijuana is the last step of legalizing the production, sale, and consumption of marijuana since it was allowed to be legalized back in 2013. Yet, it was a slow progress for the government to put the law into action.
“Cannabis will be dispensed in pharmacies starting in the month of July,” stated Juan Andres Roballo, the head of the National Drugs Council. There was no specific date in July given but the presidential aide identified the first two weeks of July as the possible start point of the sales.
Inquirer also reported that as of now only 16 pharmacies had agreed with the government to supply marijuana. But, Uruguay’s government is hopeful for the numbers to grow to at least 30 pharmacies. Furthermore, secretary general of the National Drugs Council, Diego Olivera also identified that a gram of pot would cost $1.30.
Moreover, it was also mentioned by Uruguay’s government that cannabis would only be sold in “packets of 5 or 10 grams.” The publication then added that Olivera stated that part of the proceeds would go to the government to fund drug prevention programs. Buyers having the right to choose to grow cannabis in their home or join cannabis clubs were also allowed by the law.
Yet, it was noted that a national registry of marijuana would be provided which is set to open to Uruguay residents starting on May 2. The law then ruled that Uruguay’s long-term residents and citizens should sign up to ensure that they follow the licensing procedures.
Nonetheless, it was made known by the government that buyers should not exceed the law to not exceed the monthly maximum purchase of 40 grams (1.4 ounces). Nonetheless, foreign tourists were reported to not be allowed to purchase from the country.
