Jamaica to lessen marijuana restrictions

KINGSTON, Jamaica, June 13 (UPI) -- Jamaica will soon reform its drug laws, making it legal to possess up to two ounces of marijuana.

Justice Minister Mark Golding emphasized "the proposed changes to the law are not intended to promote or give a stamp of approval to the use of ganja for recreational purposes."

Instead, the justice minister said, "The objective is to provide a more enlightened approach to dealing with possession of small quantities."

Marijuana would also be legalized for religious, medical, and scientific purposes, Golding added.

Parliament is expected to pass the reforms by September.

With the coming reforms, Kingston Mayor Angela Brown believes, "The time has come to provide an opportunity for Jamaicans to benefit from the marijuana industry."