Jersey Set to Vote on Cannabis Decriminalisation as Politicians Clash Over Health Risks

A proposal to decriminalise the possession of small amounts of cannabis in Jersey has been described by one politician as a significant shift in how the island approaches both the law and public attitudes towards the drug.

Deputy Tom Coles has backed the plans, put forward by Health Minister Deputy Tom Binet, saying the proposal represents a more modern and pragmatic response to cannabis use. He described the measures as “carefully considered” and said they strike a balance between public health and personal responsibility.

The States Assembly is due to debate and vote on the proposal on 3 February. If approved, people found in possession of small quantities of cannabis would no longer face criminal prosecution.

Deputy Binet, who lodged the proposition, said the current legal framework was outdated and argued cannabis use should be treated primarily as a health issue rather than a criminal matter. He said removing criminal penalties could allow authorities to focus on education, harm reduction and regulation.

Deputy Coles, who unsuccessfully brought forward a similar proposal last year, said the growing use of legally prescribed medicinal cannabis had highlighted inconsistencies in the law. He said it was illogical that some long-term users were now legally consuming cannabis while others continued to face criminal sanctions for the same behaviour.

“Criminalising people doesn’t solve the problem,” Coles said. “It can lead to people losing their jobs or homes, and once that happens, they’re often pushed further into criminal activity.”

The proposal follows a request for ministers to explore options to restrict access to cannabis while reducing the harms associated with criminalisation. Deputy Binet said he recognised public concerns about the drug but believed regulation and openness were preferable to enforcement through the courts.

“If it’s managed properly, dealing with cannabis openly is likely to be safer than driving it underground,” he said, adding that different views existed on how best to protect the community.

However, health experts have warned of potential risks. Dr Daniel Myran, a Canadian public health physician, pointed to his country’s experience since cannabis was legalised nationwide in 2018. He said there had been a sharp rise in cannabis poisoning cases, particularly involving young children.

“These are often children who accidentally consume edible products intended for adults,” he said. “Some have ended up in intensive care with serious breathing problems.”

Dr Myran also cited increased cannabis use during pregnancy and a rise in cases of drug-induced psychosis and schizophrenia, urging policymakers to consider safeguards alongside any legal changes.

The upcoming vote is expected to prompt further debate about how Jersey balances personal freedom, public health and community safety.