The proposed regulations, which are expected to be approved in the coming days, would decriminalize personal cannabis use and expunge the criminal records for those convicted in the past in the majority of cases

The Israeli government is considering expunging the criminal records of those convicted of personal possession or use of cannabis, President Isaac Herzog and Justice Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced Sunday.

On approval of the new regulations, those with recreational-use convictions would be able to submit a request to have their records voided, while those with pending criminal proceedings would be able to contact the police with a request to drop the charges. The move, said the statement, is intended “to lift the criminal labeling and the stain that accompanies it” and to “complement” decriminalization regulations published last month.

Sa’ar is expected to sign the regulations in the coming days, after public comments are procured, and approval – followed by immediate implementation – is anticipated at the Knesset shortly thereafter.

The new regulations would not apply to those also charged with other offenses alongside cannabis use, apart from possession of drug paraphernalia; to those who were convicted during military service; or to minors. Each application will be considered “individually, based on circumstances,” said the statement. [Read More @ Haaretz]