Malta’s Parliament on Tuesday approved a bill to legalize marijuana, setting the country up as the first in Europe to enact the reform as soon as the measure is formally signed into law—which is expected within days. Under the legislation sponsored by MP Owen Bonnici, adults 18 and older will be allowed to possess up to seven grams of cannabis and cultivate up to four plants for personal use. Up to 50 grams of homegrown marijuana could be stored at home. While there wouldn’t be a commercial market per se, non-profit cooperatives would be able to cultivate marijuana and distribute it to members. Possession of more than seven grams but less than 28 grams by an adult would be punishable by a €50 to €100 fine without the threat of jail time or a criminal record. Minors who are found in possession of cannabis would be referred to a commission for justice for a “care plan,” rather than face arrest. Cannabis clubs that would be authorized under the bill could have as many as 500 members and would be limited to distributing seven grams per day to each member, with a maximum of 50 grams per month.
Kyle Jaeger, Marijuana Moment, 12/14/2021 10:30:00