Work is underway to change part of the island’s nearly-half-century-old drugs law which categorises some cannabis products at the same level as heroin, it has been confirmed.
Under the Misuse of Drugs (Jersey) Law 1978, dried cannabis flower and resin are listed as Class B controlled substances.
However, unless prescribed by a doctor, cannabinol products – like cannabis oil, which can be used to treat conditions such as chronic pain and insomnia – are classified as Class A.
This puts them at the same level as heroin and crack cocaine, which attract the most serious sentences for possession.
But Health Minister Tom Binet has now confirmed this is set to change in the near future.
Following questions from Deputy Inna Gardiner, who has been pushing for the “archaic” distinction to change, Deputy Binet revealed that the Misuse of Drugs Advisory Council had recommended that cannabinol and cannabinol derivatives be reclassified to Class B.
Law drafting instructions were issued on 12 May, he said, with an expectation that they will be finalised “later this summer”.
“Conversations with stakeholders regarding the operational actions required by the reclassification are also underway and progressing well,” he added.
It comes as the government is asking islanders to share views on the future of recreational cannabis in Jersey.
Last year, politicians rejected a proposition which would have decriminalised cannabis for personal use by one vote.
In November, States Members will hold another debate on whether Jersey should change the law in relation to non-medicinal cannabis – and what those changes should be.
An online survey was launched at the start of the month to understand what people in Jersey think about the island’s current approach to non-medicinal cannabis.
“We want to make sure islanders have the chance to share their views on recreational cannabis policy, and this survey is an important part of that,” Deputy Binet said at the time.
“Understanding public opinion will allow the Assembly to ensure that any future decisions are informed by the views of islanders.
“I’d encourage everyone to take a few minutes to have their say.”