Puerto Rico Signs up to Legalise Medicinal Marijuana Use

A few days ago, Alejandro García Padilla, the governor of Puerto Rico, signed an executive order to authorise the use of medicinal marijuana and derivative products on the island. The decision has taken many by surprise and generated an intense public debate.

Padilla stated that the decision marked a "significant step forward for the health sector". A step that is crucial for the development and quality of life of the country’s citizens. "I am certain that many patients will receive appropriate treatment and that this will offer them new hope”, he added.

He asserted that medicinal marijuana is especially used in the United States, among other places, in order to treat pain related to migraines and illnesses such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.

Furthermore, he explained that details will soon emerge regarding the exact uses permitted for marijuana and its medicinal derivatives. In compliance with the governor’s wishes, the Puerto Rican health authorities will have to issue a detailed report following the first three months of the legalisation period. The report will outline how the order is being implemented; the impact that it is having and future measures that could be taken. 

In turn, Jaime Perello, speaker of the House of Representatives of Puerto Rico, spoke of his support for the executive order because he considers it to be “a step in the right direction”. Liberalization is occurring in a country, the United States, where even federal legislators are beginning to debate the need to end prohibition. 

In 2013, Puerto Rican legislators debated a legal initiative to use marijuana for medicinal purposes; however the vote never took place. Consequently, some activists have been surprised by Padilla’s decision and would rather wait with caution until the order is put into action.