Germany Cannabis Law: The German parliament passed an 'unconventional' bill which seeks to legalise the use of cannabis for recreational purposes. The new legislation will enable the adults in Germany to possess a substantial amount of cannabis, but it will make the purchase of the drug hard for people.
The new rules will become effective from April 1 in many areas of the country. It will also legalise smoking cannabis in public spaces.
Public possession of up to 25 gm of cannabis, equivalent to several strong joints, will be permitted. In private homes, the legal limit will be 50 gm. This move aims to tackle the thriving black market, ensure quality control for users, and curb criminal activity associated with cannabis sales. In many parts of the country, the police often turn a blind eye to the use of cannabis, reported BBC.
This came as the use of cannabis saw a steady rise for years despite a ban on its use, said Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, who is rooting for the reforms. The Minister proposes to tackle the black market of the drug to cut the revenue streams for organised crime gangs. He also says that the government wants to make sure nobody smokes contaminated cannabis.
Won't be easy to get
The law however makes sure that the legal sale of the drug does not rise suddenly. Germany's cannabis legalisation has been igniting heated debate for years. Opponents, including doctors' groups and conservative politicians, voiced concerns about potential harm to young people and an increase in drug use. Simone Borchardt, representing the conservative CDU party in parliament, criticised the law as "unnecessary and confusing," claiming it ignored warnings from medical professionals and law enforcement.
"The number of consumers aged between 18 and 25 has doubled in the past 10 years," Simone Borchardt said.
Smoking cannabis near schools and sports grounds remains illegal. The market will be strictly regulated to prevent easy access. Plans for licensed shops and pharmacies were scrapped due to EU concerns about drug exports. Instead, non-commercial "cannabis social clubs" will distribute a limited amount. Each club has a 500-member limit, on-site consumption is prohibited, and membership is only for German residents.
Growing up to three marijuana plants at home is allowed. Germany may allow large possession amounts but make legal purchases challenging. The government aims to evaluate the law's impact over the next years before potentially introducing licensed cannabis sales.