In a groundbreaking development, Polynesia is set to usher in a new era of cannabis legalization. After the first 100 days of his presidency, Moetai Brotherson announced the readiness of the Polynesian CBD legalization project. This monumental move marks a significant step towards the acceptance of both CBD and medical cannabis in the region.
The LP3 Bill: A Paradigm Shift in Cannabis Regulation
Under the LP3 bill, officially known as Article LP3, a pioneering framework for hemp’s use and importation is established. This legislation grants Polynesian residents the right to “transport, import, export, possess, offer, transfer, acquire, transform, and use products containing or derived from hemp seeds.” However, there is a crucial stipulation: these products must be “devoid of narcotic properties,” which translates to a current THC content of less than 0.3%.
Despite the tropical Polynesian climate, which results in hemp plants producing an abundance of phytocannabinoids, it remains challenging for the local industry to adhere to France’s stringent 0.3% THC threshold. Philippe Cathelain, president of the Polynesian Hemp Syndicate, has passionately advocated for raising this limit to 1%, taking into account the unique local conditions. This recommendation stems from a mission of inquiry by the French National Assembly, emphasizing the need for tolerance in overseas territories, similar to the existing policy in Reunion.
A Tripartite Legislation with Far-reaching Implications
This new legislation comprises three pivotal components. Beyond the legalization of CBD, the Ministry of Agriculture has crafted a second directive addressing the cultivation and transformation of hemp. However, the most eagerly awaited aspect is the third one, centered around medical cannabis. While CBD offers stress-relief properties, healthcare professionals are primarily interested in THC’s potential for pain management.
Philippe Dupire, a pharmacist at the French Polynesian Hospital Center, highlights THC’s value in treating persistent pain and neurological conditions such as epilepsy. Nevertheless, the bill specifies that products containing hemp or cannabinoids can only make therapeutic claims if they receive authorization as medications. Presently, only three cannabis-based medicines are available in mainland France, and this new legislation will enable their importation into Polynesia.
The legislation carves out exceptions for select medications, allowing their “exceptional use” when “implementing the treatment is likely to benefit the patient” and when “the efficacy and safety of these medications are strongly presumed based on current scientific knowledge.” The Polynesian Council of Ministers will compile a list of these exceptional medications, likely encompassing cannabis extracts and flowers.
The comprehensive bill is poised to be unveiled to the public in the coming days.
FAQs
Q: What does the LP3 bill entail?
A: The LP3 bill in Polynesia establishes a pioneering framework for the use and importation of hemp products. It grants residents the right to engage in various activities related to hemp, provided that these products have a THC content of less than 0.3%.
Q: Why is there a push to raise the THC limit to 1%?
A: The push to raise the THC limit to 1% is based on the unique climatic conditions in Polynesia, where hemp plants naturally produce higher levels of phytocannabinoids. Advocates argue that this adjustment is necessary to accommodate the local hemp industry.
Q: What are the key components of the new legislation in Polynesia?
A: The legislation encompasses three main components: the legalization of CBD, regulations regarding the cultivation and transformation of hemp, and provisions for medical cannabis use.
Q: How will medical cannabis be regulated in Polynesia?
A: Medical cannabis in Polynesia will be subject to strict regulations, and products can only make therapeutic claims if they receive authorization as medications. Exceptions may be made for certain medications deemed beneficial to patients.
This transformative development in Polynesia holds immense promise, paving the way for a new era in cannabis acceptance and regulation. Stay tuned for further updates as this progressive legislation unfolds.
