The Legislative Decision
Recently, the Permanent Special Environment Commission’s decision was clear. With a 5-3 vote, they turned down a proposal from the Executive Branch of the Costa Rican government. Their mission? To legitimize and oversee the cultivation, sale, and use of recreational cannabis in Costa Rica.
Decades-Old Arguments Revived
The familiar reasons against legalization resurfaced: the age-old “hazard to the youth,” potential burden on healthcare, and the budding “threat” of cannabis tourism. Yet, the everyday Costa Rican street paints a different picture. In reality, marijuana consumption isn’t just frequent; it’s practically a norm.
A Glimpse into San Jose’s Streets
During a recent walk in San Jose, the sight was telling. Within three days, over a dozen individuals were spotted puffing away with not a care in the world. Even the nearby patrolling officers turned a blind eye. While major cultivators tread on thin ice, small dealers and users find solace in the country’s passive law enforcement.
The Real Risk Takers
Major cannabis growers remain at risk, evident from reports of plantations being wiped out in the Talamanca mountains or indoor cultivators being flagged for excessive electricity usage.
Addressing the Detractors
The arguments against marijuana don’t hold much water. The “endangering youth” rationale, reminiscent of the Reefer Madness era, fails to recognize teenage rebellion. If health care is genuinely a concern, the government should reconsider its ties to the liquor industry. Cacique, a local liquor, has wreaked havoc on many, and its creator, Fanal, is backed by the Fabrica Nacional de Licores.
The Urban Reality
In urban Costa Rica, those struggling with substance abuse are usually battling alcohol addiction. As for marijuana tourism, the country’s rich heritage and attractions already make it a popular destination. Legal marijuana would simply be the cherry on top.
The Ground Reality of Marijuana Procurement
Acquiring marijuana is hardly a challenge. The state’s reluctance to tap into this revenue stream is baffling, especially given its economic potential. While some might be content with the current situation, legalizing it might put its control solely in the hands of the elite, potentially compromising its quality.
Future Predictions
Medical marijuana is legal in Costa Rica, though few opt for the formal prescription route. The potential revenue from legalization is bound to sway decision-makers eventually. The future will likely see the cannabis trade governed by market forces.
