Antigua to amend law to fine those who use marijuana in Public

The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to amend the Cannabis Act to introduce fines for individuals caught smoking Marijuana in public spaces.

Information Minister Melford Nicholas explained that the government initially decriminalized the use of small amounts of marijuana a few years ago, aiming to relax legal restrictions. However, this move inadvertently led to confusion about the legality of public cannabis use.

Nicholas said, “To address this, a three-step process was initially prescribed: warnings for first-time offenders, tickets for subsequent violations, and fines for repeat offenders. The decision the cabinet took yesterday is to remove layers one and two, and we will go straight to fines. “While the use of small amounts of marijuana will not lead to criminal prosecution, smoking in public will now incur fines. This legislative change will be introduced when parliament convenes.”