Germany will legalize cannabis, marking a significant shift in its drug policy. The German Bundestag voted on the marijuana legalization bill today. Cannabis will be legal from first of april this year! 407 for and 226 against.
The coalition government, consisting of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Free Democratic Party, and the Greens, has reached a consensus on the legislation. This agreement follows a series of negotiations and revisions to address concerns within the coalition, particularly from some SPD members. Despite these internal disagreements, the proposed law is expected to pass, with provisions for personal use, home cultivation, and distribution through nonprofit “cannabis clubs”.
Possessing slightly more cannabis than the allowable amount will not be automatically treated as a criminal offense, aiming to decriminalize adult users while ensuring youth and public health protection. The legislation also envisions establishing regional pilot programs for commercial cannabis supply chains as part of a broader two-pillar approach to legalization.
The legalization of cannabis in Germany represents a major policy shift within the European Union, with the country set to become the third EU member state to legalize cannabis for personal use, following Malta and Luxembourg. This move is expected to have significant implications for drug policy, public health, and law enforcement in Germany and potentially influence cannabis legislation trends in Europe.
Facts about the law from DW:
Adults will be able to grow up to three cannabis plants at home and possess 50 grams there.
In public, adults will be allowed to have up to 25 grams for their consumption.
As of July 1, cannabis clubs will be allowed for joint cultivation with a maximum of 500 members.
The clubs can pass on a maximum of 25 grams per day or 50 grams per month to members, with a lower monthly limit for 18-21-year-olds.
There will be no commercial shops.