What is the legal status of cannabis in Johannesburg?
In September 2018, the Constitutional Court of South Africa decriminalized the private use, possession, and cultivation of cannabis for personal consumption. This ruling applies to Johannesburg and the rest of the country. However, the trade, sale, and public use of cannabis remain illegal. The government is still in the process of finalizing legislation and regulations to provide a clear framework for legal cannabis use.
What is the public opinion on cannabis in Johannesburg?
Public opinion on cannabis in Johannesburg is diverse, with some people supporting its legalization and others opposing it. Many people view the decriminalization of private cannabis use as a positive step towards reducing the burden on the criminal justice system and respecting individual rights. Others argue that cannabis can have negative effects on health and social issues and should remain strictly controlled. Overall, public opinion is likely to continue evolving as the government develops its new regulations.
What are the laws and penalties surrounding cannabis in Johannesburg?
As mentioned earlier, the private use, possession, and cultivation of cannabis for personal consumption are decriminalized in Johannesburg. However, the following activities remain illegal:
- Public use of cannabis
- Driving under the influence of cannabis
- Selling or supplying cannabis
- Importing or exporting cannabis
Penalties for these offenses can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation and the discretion of the court. The police are still allowed to arrest individuals found in possession of cannabis in public spaces, but the court must consider whether the amount is for personal use or indicates an intention to sell.
What are the local names for cannabis in Johannesburg?
In Johannesburg and South Africa as a whole, cannabis is commonly referred to as dagga. Other popular names include weed, zol, and ganja.
Is CBD legal in Johannesburg?
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, is legal in Johannesburg and the rest of South Africa. In May 2019, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) removed certain CBD products from the list of scheduled substances, making them available without a prescription. However, these products must contain no more than 20 mg of CBD per daily dose and cannot claim to cure or treat any specific medical conditions.
What is the status of medical marijuana in Johannesburg?
Medical marijuana is legal in Johannesburg and throughout South Africa, but access to it is strictly controlled. In 2017, the SAHPRA approved the use of medical marijuana for specific conditions, including chronic pain, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. However, patients must obtain a prescription from a qualified healthcare practitioner and obtain the cannabis from a licensed supplier.
What are the regulations for cannabis cultivation in Johannesburg?
Individuals in Johannesburg are allowed to cultivate cannabis for personal use, following the 2018 Constitutional Court ruling. However, the government is still in the process of establishing clear guidelines and regulations for cultivation. As a result, the exact number of plants allowed per person and other specific rules remain unclear.
For more information about cannabis laws and regulations in Johannesburg and South Africa, the following resources may be helpful:
- South African Department of Justice
- South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA)
- South African Government
- Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act
- Constitutional Court of South Africa
It is essential to stay informed about the ongoing changes to cannabis laws and regulations in Johannesburg and South Africa as a whole.