It has been a long slow road to the legalization of marijuana but, on June 27th, Mexico’s Supreme Court stepped in to abolish laws that criminalize the recreational use of cannabis after congress failed to comply with the mandate to pass the legislation.

The prohibition of cannabis was declared unconstitutional in 2018, yet the bill was not pushed through, even after three extensions, so the Supreme Court moved to vote, with 8-3 in favour.

Persons wishing to obtain cannabis will need to apply for a permit from Cofepris -Federal Commission for Protection against Health Risks. Provided they are over 18, they will be allowed up to 28 grams of cannabis and may apply for a permit to cultivate and harvest marijuana plants for personal use. In addition, local farmers will have an opportunity to apply for licenses to grow and sell cannabis.

Like alcohol restrictions in force, minors can not consume cannabis, and it will be illegal to drive any vehicle or use heavy equipment after smoking or ingesting cannabis. In addition, understand that it is still illegal to sell drugs, even cannabis.

Cofepris must now draft the guidelines and regulations of growing, carrying and use. Mexico must now wait for the court’s orders to be implemented and find out the process of using and growing cannabis.