Incoming Dutch Government Scraps Plans For Tourist Weed Ban

Proposal would have effectively banned foreigners from marijuana cafes

The incoming Dutch government has ditched plans for a national "weed pass" that would have been available only to residents and that would have effectively banned tourists from Amsterdam's marijuana cafes.

However, under a provisional governing pact unveiled this week, cities can bar foreigners from weed shops if they choose.

The pact says that it wants only Dutch residents to have access to marijuana cafes, but leaves enforcement up to cities. Amsterdam opposes a ban, which would hurt tourism.

Some cafe owners said on Tuesday that they are satisfied Dutch weed policy will remain unchanged, while others criticised the lack of clarity.