By Samantha Guthrie
The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) released a statement
yesterday outlining a draft law on the use of marijuana, to be
introduced to Parliament at the next session.
On July 30, the Constitutional Court of Georgia declared that
administrative punishment for use of the drug marijuana was
unconstitutional when consumption does not create any threat to third
parties - effectively legalizing the consumption of marijuana.
“By this decision the Constitutional Court has created a completely
new legal reality,” reads the MIA statement. The Court determined that
marijuana use may be prohibited in certain contexts. The MIA is tasked
with enforcing the law and protecting public safety. Their statement
says that “the absence of the relevant legislative framework hinders the
effective struggle against illegal circulation of drugs and promotes
its use.”
The draft law prohibits the use of marijuana in any place of public
gathering, on all public transport, in the presence of a minor, in or
around educational institutions, their buildings and other facilities
for people under the age of 18, at or near public meetings intended for
minors, and for certain people performing official duties (for example,
teachers, doctors, public servants). Driving a car under the influence
of marijuana also remains prohibited. “Popularization or advertising of
any drugs is an administrative offense and will lead to the appropriate
response” reminds the MIA statement.
The draft law aims “to protect juveniles from the harmful effects of marijuana” and uphold public safety.
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