Strict Measures in Place to Protect Children and Vulnerable Groups from Cannabis Exposure

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, April 1, 2026 (PMO) — The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has reinforced its commitment to public health and safety through a comprehensive set of regulations aimed at protecting children and vulnerable groups from exposure to cannabis.

Both Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew and Attorney General Hon. Garth Wilkin, during statements in the National Assembly on March 31, 2026, outlined the safeguards embedded within the Federation’s cannabis legislation, emphasizing that rights must be balanced with responsibility.

Prime Minister Drew made it clear that public health considerations remain central to the Government’s approach, particularly in shared spaces, and further explained that the regulations governing cannabis use are not intended to target any one group, but rather to ensure the protection of all citizens.

“You don’t know if there’s an asthmatic standing behind you,” the Prime Minister stated, underscoring the potential health risks associated with smoking in public areas. “So smoking is not targeting cannabis in any way. It is targeting smoking, period,” Dr. Drew said.

The Prime Minister further highlighted that the legislation includes clear provisions to prevent exposure to minors and other vulnerable individuals, reinforcing the importance of responsible behavior.

On this point, Attorney General Garth Wilkin emphasized that the law strictly prohibits access by minors and requires that cannabis be stored and used in a controlled and secure manner, and also stressed the importance of safeguarding cannabis within private spaces to prevent unintended access.

“No person on the age of 18 shall cultivate, possess or smoke cannabis,” the Attorney General stated. “…If you are a parent in a home with a five year old, you should not be keeping cannabis on your kitchen table,” he cautioned, pointing to the need for responsible storage practices.

In addition, the legislation prohibits the use of cannabis in proximity to schools and other sensitive environments, ensuring that children are shielded from exposure.

“No possession or smoking of cannabis on a school bus, school premises or at any private residence that is located within 300 feet of a school during regular hours of operation of the school,” the Attorney General explained.

The Government has also implemented designated smoking areas to further limit public exposure and protect individuals with respiratory conditions and other health concerns.

Together, these measures form part of a broader framework designed to ensure that while certain rights are upheld, the health and safety of the wider population remain paramount.

The Government continues to urge all citizens to adhere strictly to the law, emphasizing that responsible conduct is essential to maintaining a safe and healthy society.

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