In a letter published in Le Monde, numerous ideas for cannabis legalization in France are discussed. The European country intends to initiate a consultation process that would conclude in the proposal of a new law to legalize recreational cannabis.
Among the 31 senators who signed the letter calling for the consultation process to begin were Socialist, Ecologist, and Republican organizations, including socialists Patrick Kanner and David Assouline, senators from the North and Paris, respectively.
Decriminalization Is Not An Option
The senators rejected the idea of decriminalization, calling it a demagogue alternative that would keep the current restriction in place. The call to the senators was published a few days ago by Le Monde, which has dubbed the current situation in France "unsustainable."
"According to a National Assembly report, about 18 million of our fellow people have used cannabis recreationally." "according to the senators' report, "Despite the fact that it is illegal, 1.5 million people frequently drink it."
Senators contend that legalization is a societal issue that government should address. They argue that the government must address existing valid concerns.
"Decriminalization is a 'cynical and popular' alternative characterized by the continuation of the ban while eliminating the consequences incurred," the letter states. Furthermore, senators stated that "decriminalization only buys societal peace with cynicism, and they go on to absolutely reject this demagogue and popular choice."
Legalization: A Solution To Protect Youth
According to the letter, this legal approach may be similar to existing public regulations for cigarettes, alcohol, or even gambling. Furthermore, he stated that "legalization would enable the means to act more effectively in order to better safeguard individuals, particularly young people." Furthermore, the senators agree that legalization might provide tax income for the state, strengthening the economy, particularly in the justice and law enforcement sectors.
In 2019, 70 physicians, economists, and other experts submitted an editorial for L'Obs outlining why they wanted cannabis legalized.
Featured Image: Megapixl @gustavofrazao.
