SANTIAGO, (Reuters) – Chile took a step forward in decriminalizing the use of cannabis yesterday after the lower house of Congress approved by a wide margin a bill that seeks to change the law in the South American country.
Although socially conservative Chile is not following Uruguay’s lead on full legalization, it is considering decriminalizing it for personal use and cultivation.
To loud cheers from the public gallery, the lower house voted 68 votes in favor versus 39 against to push forward with the reform in general terms.
As it stands, the bill would allow the possession of up to 10 grams (0.35 ounce) of cannabis and the growing of up to six plants.