By Jon Hiltz
As countries around the world continue to ponder the idea of marijuana reform, one region where the discussion is spreading rapidly is the Caribbean. Sun-drenched nations that include Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Antigua, Barbados, and Costa Rica are examining or implementing some level of acceptance for pot.
The latest tropical territory to question whether it’s right to give someone a prison sentence for smoking a joint is the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Today, BVI News reported that Premier D. Orlando Smith is reviewing the country’s punishment laws for marijuana possession.
During a press briefing, the Premier was asked if the BVI Government has any intention of legalizing or decriminalizing cannabis. Smith replied that “it’s not a topic for discussion in Cabinet at this time, but it is a topic for discussion among our members.”
The Premier went on to add that there may be a time in the future when the BVI Cabinet will address those specific points, but for now, they are only reviewing sentencing. Smith said the “question of persons who are incarcerated for just smoking a joint, is something that’s actually being discussed.”
In November 2014, Premier Smith was questioned about the possibility of the BVI taking advantage of the marijuana production industry. At the time, he stated further studies would have to be conducted before any decisions could be made.
Although these current discussions in the British Virgin Islands are early at best, the seed of change has been planted in yet another Caribbean nation. Whether or not that seed will grow into a sweet crop of ganja remains anyone’s guess, but talk of decriminalization is a fine place to start.
