The people of New Zealand have voted to reject the legalization of cannabis in the island nation, preliminary results of a referendum indicated Friday, the New Zealand Herald reported.
What Happened: While 53.1% voted to reject the legalization move, 46.1% were in the bid’s favor. The final results will be announced Nov. 6 and will include nearly 480,000 special votes, according to the Herald.
The government of New Zealand has reportedly ruled out reform of the country’s drug laws — including decriminalization of cannabis — as a result of the referendum.
46% not a small mandate? In the face of a 53% vote the other way it’s not a mandate at all. The result is very disappointing to those who see a more sensible way of managing cannabis in the community. It was agreed to go to a referendum. It went to a referendum. The vote was no.
— Andrew Little (@AndrewLittleMP) October 30, 2020
Justice Minister Andrew Little however said that drug…
