It’s been a little more than a year since the House of Representatives in Jamaica made the decision to decriminalize possession of cannabis (up to two ounces, that is). Now it appears they are ready to take the next step forward and start cashing in on the cannabis tourism trend. After all, with their new laws there are many more tourists than before who are hoping to get their hands on some sticky green when they reach the island nation.
“If the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA) has its way, Jamaica’s air- and seaports will have kiosks or dedicated desks where visitors can pick up a license to sample some of the ‘good herb’ to enhance their island experience.”
The Cannabis Licensing Authority in Jamaica have announced that they are in the process of coming up with policies to govern the regulation of medical marijuana kiosks and vending machines that will be installed in all airports and seaports. This will allow those vacationing to purchase cannabis practically as soon as they are off the ship or plane – though, that is without factoring in the line the will probably have to wait in.
According to the CLA, the way it works would be relatively simple. It is mainly created so that individuals with a prescription or recommendation for cannabis back home (regardless of where “home” might be) can obtain a card to allow them to smoke legally while they are on the island. For those who do not have a prescription, they will be able to do what they call “self-declare”, which will allow them to smoke legally only while they are visiting.
“The thought is that if you are coming out of the airport, there is a kiosk that you can go to. So basically, whoever is coming out of immigration can go to that desk and register and get that clearance,” – Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA) Chairman Hyacinth Lightbourne told the Jamaican publication The Gleaner.
From the kiosks near immigration, visitors would find a vending machine, very similar to those that dispense snack foods, but instead filled with large bags of cannabis. Whether it would come in different sizes and which strains might be available, it’s anyone’s guess right now. However, if you’ve been planning a trip to Jamaica and you haven’t booked your airfare or cruise, this may be a good enough reason to hold off just a little longer.
