The bill legalizing cannabis, promoted by Health Minister Karl Lauterbach and approved by the German cabinet, has sparked both enthusiasm and opposition within the country. Now that cannabis is legal, it means that Germany will go through many twists and turns. Let's see what some of them are.

The Turning Point Towards Marijuana Legalization for Germans

Hailed as a "turning point" in the approach to cannabis legalization in Germany, the bill was introduced after acknowledging the shortcomings of previous strategies. The health minister, while supporting the bill, stresses that recreational cannabis use remains risky despite legalization.

One of the goals of legalization could be to curb the growing black market, reduce cannabis-related crime, and ensure safe access for consumers. However, some health groups have raised concerns about a possible increase in use among young people.

Purpose and Rationale for Legal Cannabis in Germany

The primary objectives behind the bill are to curb black market activities, reduce the trade in adulterated or toxic substances and, finally, reduce the number of consumers. A central element of the legislative project is the protection of minors, a sentiment echoed in the launch of an information campaign for young people called “Legal, but...”.

Key points of the new law project

The change in the law that made cannabis legal in Germany represents a historic turning point. However, the ban on use for minors under 18 and restrictions for young people between 18 and 21 remain. These limits were introduced to protect the youngest and limit consumption at vulnerable ages.

The bill proposes several key points:

Cannabis Possession and Cultivation Limits : Cannabis users aged 18 and over may carry up to 25 grams of dried cannabis on their person and cultivate up to three plants for personal use.

Cannabis Social Clubs : Approved “cannabis social clubs” would provide members with home-grown cannabis products. Consumption on the club premises or within a 200-meter radius of the club would be prohibited. Each club would be allowed to have up to 500 members. Each member would be allowed to purchase up to 50 grams per month.

Decriminalization and Model Regions : The initial phase involves decriminalization, followed by specialty stores being allowed to sell recreational cannabis products containing THC in select districts and cities designated as model regions for five years.

Tax revenues and expenditures : While initial expectations were high, estimated tax revenues have been revised downward. This potential shift is likely to result in additional expenditures for law assessment, information, and prevention efforts.

The Specter of Opposition to Cannabis Use in Germany

Despite its ambitious goals, the proposal has met with opposition from several sides. Associations representing doctors for children and adolescents have raised concerns about the potential risks to mental health and development opportunities among young people.

The police union and the German Judges' Association oppose the intricate clauses covering cannabis clubs and cannabis use, citing concerns about increased judicial workload.

Conservative lawmakers and opposing political factions have denounced the bill as medically ill-advised, a threat to youth and health protections, and potentially resulting in a diminished sense of control.

Interestingly, even supporters of cannabis legalization have expressed discontent, perceiving the regulations as overly intricate and limited in scope.

The law, supported by the German parliament, establishes strict rules to prevent the misuse of cannabis, for example, it is forbidden to smoke cannabis while driving or to be under the influence of the drug in public. Consumption will also be regulated in the vicinity of schools, with a minimum distance of 100 meters.

Conclusion: Is Germany legalizing?

Germany’s introduction of a bill to legalize cannabis is a watershed moment in the nation’s approach to drug policy. While it aims to address concerns about the black market, adulterated substances, and youth protection, a law legalizing possession and cultivation has gone into effect in Germany. This law is likely to spark vigorous debate, potential amendments, and balancing progressive ideals with the complexities of the real world.