Mexican President Backs Off Drug Bill

Alfredo, 19, smokes during a protest demanding a law that allows legal consumption of marijuana, Mexico City, Mexico, in this May 3, 2003 file photo. Mexican President Vicente Fox refused to sign a drug decriminalization bill Wednesday, May 3, 2006 hours after U.S. officials warned the plan could encourage "drug tourism." (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd, file) (Rodrigo Abd - AP)

MEXICO CITY -- Mexican President Vicente Fox backed off signing a drug decriminalization bill that the United States warned could result in "drug tourism" and increased availability of narcotics in American border communities.

Fox reversed course Wednesday and said he was sending the bill back to Congress for changes, just one day after his office had said he would sign it into law. The measure would have dropped criminal penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other drugs.

Fox's statement said he will ask for corrections "to make it absolutely clear in our country, the possession of drugs and their consumption are, and will continue to be, a criminal offense."

San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders applauded Fox's decision. On Friday, Sanders said he was "appalled" by the bill, saying it could increase drug availability north of the border.

"I'm glad that he's listened to the many voices opposing the bill and made changes that will make good enforcement and not legalize drugs," Sanders said. "We have been a partner with Mexico in fighting against illegal drugs, and this will only help in the long-term in that relationship."

San Diego sits a short drive from the border town of Tijuana.

Earlier Wednesday, U.S. Embassy spokeswoman Judith Bryan said U.S. officials had "urged Mexican representatives to review the legislation urgently to avoid the perception that drug use would be tolerated in Mexico, and to prevent drug tourism."

That was apparently a reference to concern that the measure could increase drug use by border visitors and U.S. students who flock to Mexico on vacation.

Bryan said the U.S. government wants Mexico "to ensure that all persons found in possession of any quantity of illegal drugs be prosecuted or be sent into mandatory drug treatment programs."

Fox's statement did not mention the U.S. criticism, but did acknowledge that the bill had been controversial.

"With sensitivity toward the opinions expressed by various sectors of society, the administration has decided to suggest changes to the content of the bill," the statement said.

On Tuesday, Fox's spokesman had called the bill "an advance" and pledged the president would sign it.