The potential decriminalisation of small amounts of cannabis and the establishment of a national lottery moved a step closer after the government announced that the Law Reform Commission will develop a public consultation paper.
Premier André Ebanks said the commission had nearly completed its reviews of cannabis decriminalisation and the establishment of a national lottery, with public consultation expected to begin mid-year.
Ebanks said, “Independent review processes are essential in ensuring that future policy decisions are informed by evidence, expert analysis and public input.
“The Law Reform Commission consults widely in performing its detailed work and this government will consider its recommendations once that process is complete,” Ebanks said.
He added, the anticipated end date for submission of the final report on cannabis decriminalisation is October, with the report on the national lottery due at the start of 2027.
The usual process for the commission is research and analysis, publication of a discussion paper, then public consultation.
The next stages involve the creation of a final report with recommendations and, where appropriate, draft legislative amendments.
The work on cannabis decriminalisation includes discussions with interested parties and “a comparative analysis” of the regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions.
The commission is reviewing options for a national lottery, including regulatory models, governance arrangements and the public interest protections.
The government said, “This involves research into legislative and oversight models, market and economic considerations, harm minimisation measures and integrity and enforcement frameworks.”
Referenda on cannabis decriminalisation, the construction of cruise ship berths and a national lottery were run alongside the general election in April 2025.
A majority of voters approved a relaxation of the laws on cannabis to decriminalise possession and consumption of small amounts of cannabis, as well as the introduction of a national lottery.
But the creation of cruise ship berthing facilities was rejected by more than two-thirds of those who cast a vote.
Ebanks promised further updates on cannabis decriminalisation and a national lottery as the work of the commission progressed.
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Cannabis decriminalization for small amounts is a waste of time as its only going to have more weed heads here in Cayman and its being abused enough already by the younger generation. Marijuana on a whole has no positive benefits to it all and its not like its not known.
Negative effects of prolonged usage includes respiratory problems, cardiovascular problems , mental issues Govt Please do your research carefully before acting on implementation of decriminalization its not needed.
In regards to a national lottery that isn’t needed in Cayman Islands either . The disastrous results of implentation will be seen
This is a very serious matter that will drastically effect life in the Caymans. Marijuana use carries significant medical risks, particularly with frequent or long-term use. Key issues include impaired brain development, memory, and cognitive function, alongside increased risks for mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Physical risks include cardiovascular stress (increased heart rate/blood pressure) and chronic respiratory issues/
Regular use, especially starting in adolescence, is linked to lower IQ, impaired memory, and learning difficulties. It is associated with increased risks of psychosis, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety.
Smoking marijuana can damage lung tissue, cause chronic bronchitis, and increase the risk of respiratory infections.
Use during pregnancy can lead to restricted fetal growth, premature birth, and long-term, adverse impacts on a child’s brain development.
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) can occur, ranging from mild to severe. Impaired coordination and reaction time increase risks of motor vehicle accidents.
These effects are often more severe with high-potency products and with consistent, long-term consumption. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (.gov)
Dr. J.A.Finley- Cayman Brac
Lotteries are nothing more than a tax on the poor, wrapped up as a chance at wealth. We are better than that.
I don’t know whether to laugh or cry. The effects of cannabis can be deadly, as freddy1066 stated. Wake up, and deal with all the many serious problems that exist here.
I suggest Gov’t consult with the NHS in the U.K. who will inform them that continued use of ganja causes serious mental health problems. We have enough problems with mental health without encouraging it.
Please do not make the same mistakes we have made in the United States