Uruguay Poised to Legalize Cannabis

The Uruguayan Senate is expected to approve a bill to legalize cannabis Tuesday. Spearheaded by ruling Broad Front coalition headed by President Jose Mujica, the bill was approved by the country’s lower house in August.

The bill aims to reduce drug trafficking and organized crime by adopting a state-run marijuana production, distribution and sales network. In addition, it would allow citizens to grow six cannabis plants with a maximum yield of 480 grams per year. Marijuana clubs with 15 to 45 members would also be allowed to grow up to 99 plants at a time.

If passed into law Tuesday, the government will have a 120-day timeframe to regulate its provisions. Opponents have already declared intentions to repeal the bill if it is passed into law.