Bahamas Introduces Comprehensive Cannabis Bill

The Bahamas makes its move

The Bahamian government has introduced the Cannabis Bill 2024, a comprehensive legislative package that would fundamentally change the country’s approach to cannabis. If passed, the bill would legalize cannabis for medical, religious, and scientific purposes while decriminalizing possession of up to 30 grams.

Key provisions

• Medical use: Legalized with a regulated licensing framework
• Religious use: Protected for authorized religious practices
• Decriminalization: Possession of 30g or less would result in a $250 fine instead of criminal charges
• Expungement: Prior simple possession convictions would be cleared
• Bahamas Cannabis Authority: New regulatory body to oversee licensing
• Ownership: 100% Bahamian ownership required for cannabis licences

What This Means

If enacted, the Bahamas would go from one of the more restrictive Caribbean nations to one of the more progressive — in a single legislative package. The 100% Bahamian ownership requirement mirrors similar provisions in the USVI, prioritizing local economic benefit.

For tourists visiting Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Out Islands, the proposed 30g decriminalization would be a significant shift. But the bill needs to pass first — and implementation would follow after that.