After the ACT Legislative Assembly last week passed laws legalising the recreational use of marijuana from 31 January, Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton labelled the legislation “dangerous” and threatened to block the laws, as did Federal Attorney-General Christian Porter.
However, constitutional law expert George Williams says that while the Coalition has special powers to override ACT legislation, it would be wrong to so and the ACT’s decision should be respected. The possession of cannabis is a criminal offence under federal law. From The Australian:
“The power undoubtedly exists for the federal parliament to assert its will over the ACT — it would though be wrong to do so,” Professor Williams said.
