Colombian Lawmakers Narrowly Reject Bill for Legal Cannabis Sales

LOS ANGELES– In a close vote of 47-43, Colombian lawmakers fell short of passing a bill that would have legalized adult-use cannabis sales nationwide. Although the measure received a majority of support in the chamber, it failed to meet the constitutional requirement for a minimum of 54 senators in favor of the bill. This outcome highlights the challenges faced in advancing the cannabis agenda in Colombia.

The proposal, which aimed to regulate the sale of cannabis products to adults, faced strong opposition despite its majority backing. The bill included provisions to restrict cannabis use and sales in educational institutions and public spaces. It sought to address concerns over drug trafficking and the potential risks associated with unregulated cannabis markets.

Interior Minister Luis Fernando Velasco expressed the administration’s determination to pursue the issue despite the setback. President Gustavo Petro’s government remains committed to advancing cannabis reform and will likely explore alternative avenues to achieve its objectives.

Liberal Party Senator Juan Carlos Losada, while acknowledging the vote as falling short of the desired outcome, emphasized the progress made in pushing cannabis to the forefront of public discourse. He stressed that leaving the cannabis trade in the hands of drug traffickers and dealers would have negative consequences for Colombia’s youth and democratic principles.

Colombia, known for its history of drug production and trafficking, has gradually introduced reforms surrounding cannabis. Currently, the country permits the medical use of certain cannabis-derived products such as oils and creams. Additionally, personal cannabis use and cultivation of up to 20 plants are allowed under previous reforms implemented in the 1980s and 1990s.

Among South American nations, Uruguay remains the sole country permitting adult cannabis sales, highlighting the region’s varying approaches to cannabis regulation.

While the recent vote represents a setback for advocates of legal cannabis sales in Colombia, the issue remains a topic of significant importance and public debate. The government’s determination, coupled with the ongoing discussions surrounding cannabis regulation, suggests that the country’s stance on adult-use cannabis sales may evolve in the future, potentially opening new opportunities for business and finance sectors related to the cannabis industry.