Eyeing the successes Washington and Colorado have had since legalizing recreational marijuana in 2012, Canada and Mexico are racing to be the first North American country to legalize marijuana.
Canada
On October 19th, Canada elected Justin Trudeau as their new Prime Minister. One of Trudeau’s main promises on the campaign trail, was to “legalize, regulate, and restrict access to marijuana”. His opponent wanted more restrictions and punishments for the use of marijuana. Trudeau won the election 184 to 99, showing clearly that the majority of Canadians want to legalize marijuana. Since being sworn in, Trudeau has promised to get to work on marijuana legalization “right away”.
Mexico
On October 28th, Mexico’s Supreme Court will vote on the constitutionality of a federal health law prohibiting the growth and consumption of marijuana. They could decide to legalize the recreational use and cultivation of marijuana throughout Mexico.
This could be a huge step for Mexico. With years of cartels dominating the black market and excessive minor charges holding up the courts, legalizing marijuana could clear things up for the country. In addition to the added political pressure of Washington and Colorado legalizing recreational marijuana in the United States, Mexico’s Supreme Court is primed to legalize marijuana.
Becoming the first country in North American to fully legalize marijuana could have huge economic benefits for which ever country does it first. It is also a very exciting time for marijuana advocates who have been dreaming and waiting patiently for this day. People all over the world are rethinking marijuana and finding that it is a wonderful plant.
Who do you think will be first? Stay tuned to find out!
Photo: Bart Everson
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