New traffic laws in pipeline as cannabis use legalised in Thailand
The Land Transport Department (DLT) is pushing for a law that bans public transport drivers from using cannabis before driving. Cannabis intoxication will then likely be made illegal for all drivers on Thai roads.
The move comes as Thailand prepares to legalise cultivation of cannabis/marijuana for home use on June 9. However, cannabis extracts that contain more than 0.2 per cent THC – the substance that gets people high – will remain illegal after June 9.
Relaxation of the law has sparked concern it could lead to traffic accidents caused by cannabis intoxication.
Thailand’s roads are already among the most dangerous in the world, with drunk-driving responsible for the majority of traffic fatalities.
The DLT is now studying new cannabis regulations for public transport, with similar regulations for all drivers in the pipeline, the Public Health Ministry said on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Public Health Act will be used to deal with the smell of cannabis smoke that could permeate neighbourhoods once home cultivation becomes legal.
Cannabis use – especially in marijuana parties – is illegal under the act, warned ministry deputy permanent secretary Thongchai Keeratihatthayakon.
The ministry will also liaise with the Consumer Protection Board to prevent advertising of illegal cannabis products and services, he added.
