News: Antigua To Expunge Criminal Records Of Persons Convicted For Small Possession Of Cannabis.

Published 12:00 AM EST, Fri Jul 04, 2025

Cabinet emphasized that the criminal records of these individuals will be expunged, allowing them a fresh start and an opportunity to continue contributing positively to society. This action aligns with the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party government’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration.

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The Antigua and Barbuda government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will expunge criminal records and grant official pardons to individuals convicted of possessing small quantities of cannabis. Attorney General Steadroy Cuttie Benjamin has been authorized to draft the bill, which will apply to those convicted of having less than 15 grams of marijuana. The proposed legislation will also extend pardons to individuals convicted under the Public Health Amendment Act during the COVID-19 pandemic, effectively clearing their criminal records. Beyond cannabis-related offenses, the Cabinet has approved a comprehensive pardon program for rehabilitated prisoners. Prime Minister Gaston Browne will advise Governor General Sir Rodney Williams to exercise constitutional authority to pardon inmates currently serving sentences who are actively participating in the HAPPI Programme and have demonstrated genuine rehabilitation. These individuals will have their criminal records completely expunged and will be immediately offered full-time employment within the HAPPI Programme upon their release. The initiative reflects the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party government's commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. Cabinet has approved EC$500,000 in funding for the HAPPI Programme to continue building and reconstructing homes for disadvantaged community members. Officials emphasized that expunging criminal records will give these individuals a fresh start and opportunity to contribute positively to society. The move to expunge records for minor cannabis possession demonstrates recognition that such convictions can create long-term barriers to employment, housing, and social reintegration. For the cannabis industry, this type of restorative justice approach is increasingly viewed as essential for addressing the disproportionate impacts of prohibition, particularly as countries consider or implement legal cannabis frameworks. Antigua and Barbuda's initiative may influence other Caribbean nations grappling with similar issues around cannabis criminalization and could signal potential future policy shifts toward more comprehensive cannabis reform in the region.

Source: Trinidad Guardian