Marijuana decriminalisation bill prepared in CNMI

3:11 pm on 13 September 2016

A bill decriminalising the use of marijuana in the Northern Marianas has been pre-filed in the Senate by Senator Sixto Igisomar.

Mr Igisomar says his vision is to have marijuana regulated like beer and tobacco, where only those 21 years of age and older can purchase, possess, and use the herb.

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Marijuana has reportedly been used in the treatment of many conditions including glaucoma, epilepsy, and muscle spasms. Photo: 123rf

The Bill calls for the responsible use of medicinal marijuana.

Mr Igisomar earlier championed the decriminalisation of medical marijuana use but changed gears because of the prohibitive cost of purchasing marijuana through pharmacies and dispensers.

Marijuana has reportedly been used in the treatment of glaucoma, epilepsy, pain, muscle spasms, the reduction of nausea during chemotherapy and improving the appetite of people with HIV/AIDS.

The use of cannabis is legal in Washington, District of Columbia, Guam and more than 20 other U.S states.