Mexico's Congress Legalizes Drugs for Personal Use
Friday, April 28, 2006
Associated Press
MEXICO CITY — Mexico's Congress approved a bill Friday that would legalize drug possession for personal use — decriminalizing the carrying of small quantities of marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine and even heroin. The only step remaining is the signature of the president, whose office indicates he will sign it, despite the implications for the war on drugs.
The bill, passed by Mexico's Senate on a 53-26 vote with one abstention, has already been approved in the lower house of Congress. U.S. officials had no immediate reaction on what this means for Mexico's fight against drug trafficking — or the vast numbers of vacationing students who visit Mexico.
"The presidency congratulates the Congress for approving the reforms," presidential spokesman Ruben Aguilar. "This law gives police and prosecutors better legal tools to combat drug crimes that do so much damage to our youth and children."
CountryWatch: Mexico
The bill legalizes possession of 25 milligrams of heroin, 5 grams of marijuana (about one-fifth of an ounce, or about five joints), or 0.5 grams of cocaine — about half the standard sale quantity, though half-size packages are becoming more common. It also lays out the legal limits for possession of a wide array of other drugs.
"No charges will be brought against ... addicts or consumers who are found in possession of any narcotic for personal use," the bill reads.
28-04-2006, 23:03
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