Overview of drug laws and legislative trends in Brazil.

Trend

Brazil went through legislative changes in 2002 and 2006, resulting in a partial decriminalization of possession for personal use. Prison sentences no longer apply and were replaced by educational measures and community services.

The Ministry of Justice and members of Congress are preparing various proposals to reform the current drug law. These are expected to include total decriminalization of possession of drugs for personal use and the lowering of sentence levels for small-scale trafficking.

Law

Law N° 11,343/2006, Art. 28:

“Whoever acquires, stores, transports or possesses unauthorized drugs for personal consumption in violation with legal standards or guidelines shall be forced to comply with the following:

I. Warning about the effects of drugs,
II. Community Service,
III. Participation in a drug educational program.”

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