Northern Mariana Islands Governor Signs Marijuana Legalization Bill Into Law
Northern Mariana Islands Governor Ralph DLG. Torres has signed HB 20-178, the Taulamwaar Sensible CNMI Cannabis Act of 2018, into law.
“Today, our people made history”, said Governor Torres is a public statement. “We took a stand to legalize marijuana in the CNMI for recreational, medical, and commercial use”.
Torres’ signature on the measure comes shortly after it passed the Senate 6-0-2; it passed the House in August 108-1-1.
The new law allows those 21 and older to possess up to an ounce of marijuana, while also possessing up to 16 ounces of marijuana infused food products and 72 ounces of marijuana infused liquids. Licensed cannabis retail outlets are authorized to distribute the plant.
Under the new law there must be a Cannabis Commission appointed within 30 days. Once formed, the commission will have 180 days to create and adopt rules for the program.
Gover Torres’ signature of HB 20-178 makes the Northern Mariana Islands the first US territory to legalize cannabis.