In a close vote, the Colombia Senate rejected a bill that would have legalized cannabis sales to adults. Despite having majority support in the chamber, with 47 senators in favor and 43 opposed, the bill fell short of the required 54 votes needed as a constitutional amendment.
Interior Minister Luis Fernando Velasco expressed the administration’s determination to continue pushing for the issue despite the setback. Liberal Party Senator Juan Carlos Losada viewed the vote as a significant step forward, emphasizing the need to address the illegal market and its negative impact on children and democracy.
The proposed legislation included regulations to restrict cannabis use and sales in educational institutions and public spaces. Currently, Colombia permits the medical use of certain cannabis products, such as oils and creams. Personal use and cultivation of up to 20 plants are also allowed under previous reforms.
Uruguay remains the only South American country that permits cannabis sales to adults. The rejection of the bill in Colombia highlights the ongoing debate and varying approaches to cannabis legalization across the region.
