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Medicinal Marijuana Bill Passes Legislature, Is Now One Signature Away Form Being Legal In USVI

ST. THOMAS -- Senator Positive Nelson's medicinal marijuana bill, after being introduced in the 31st Legislature and facing seemingly insurmountable odds, was voted favorably on Friday during the 32nd body's last session -- a landmark win for the outgoing senator, who over the years has championed the legalization of medicinal marijuana as well as its recreational use. Voting in favor of the bill were Senators Tregenza Roach, Sammuel Sanes, Janelle Sarauw, Myron Jackson, Dwayne DeGraff, Bryan Smith and Marvin Blyden. Voting against the bill were Senators Nereida Rivera-O'Reilly, Kurt Vialet and Novelle Francis. Senators Alicia Hansen and Janette Millin Young were absent. Mrs. Rivera-O'Reilly's stance on marijuana, which has been consistent from the beginning of hearings, did not change. She said the real intent of the bill was to legalize marijuana altogether. She also contended that the bill violates the Organic Act, which forbids the U.S. Virgin Islands from ...