A recent meeting of the Saeima's Legal Committee in Latvia revealed ongoing debates regarding proposed amendments to the Law on the Circulation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances. These amendments suggest that minors should be exempt from criminal responsibility for drug usage; however, the committee has yet to reach a consensus. Committee leader Andrejs Judins raised concerns over the lack of documented cases where minors have been penalized solely for drug use, noting that other crimes typically accompany such cases.

Deputy Gunārs Kūtris posed critical questions during the session, particularly regarding circumstances in which a minor might possess drugs. He inquired what liability a young person might face if found with narcotics, highlighting a scenario where a minor could potentially avoid responsibility if they consumed the drug prior to apprehension. This line of questioning underscores the complexities surrounding the enforcement of drug laws among juvenile populations and the challenges in drafting practical legal frameworks.

Kūtris also advocated for holding minors accountable in cases of repeat offenses, even if they have not yet begun to show signs of addiction. This highlights a key point in the discussions: whether the legal system should treat drug use among minors as a public health issue or a criminal one. As Latvia continues to grapple with drug-related issues among youth, the outcomes of these deliberations may significantly influence future policy decisions and the handling of juvenile drug offenses in the country.