The BVI will have to wait a while longer before the medical marijuana industry becomes a reality, as Governor Augustus Jaspert is still considering the Cannabis Licensing Act which was recently passed in the House Of Assembly.

The Cannabis Licensing Act was passed by BVI lawmakers two months ago and sets the framework for the establishment of a medical marijuana industry in the BVI.

But like all other bills passed in the BVI, it has to be granted assent by Governor Augustus Jaspert before it comes into effect.

When BVI News enquired about the bill, a response from the Governor’s office stated: “The Governor is currently considering the bill. By giving thorough consideration to this bill before granting assent, the Governor is discharging his duties as set out in the constitution as the people of BVI would expect.”

Our newsroom also sought to determine whether the Governor had any specific problems with the bill that could cause any delay in its assent. The Governor’s office responded: “[There is] no problem. He’s currently considering it [and] has yet to grant assent.”

The BVI constitution doesn’t demand that the Governor give assent to any law within a specified timeframe.

Premier Andrew Fahie said the cannabis industry is expected to inject a conservative $30 billion into the BVI economy once it’s established in a timely manner.

Approximately 100 Virgin Islanders will each receive a plot of land from the government for the cultivation and production of medicinally-purposed marijuana in Paraquita Bay, Tortola.

The government also plans to implement a Cannabis Licensing Authority that will serve as the governing body for the sector. Recreational and religious use will not be permitted under the Cannabis Licensing Act.