German Politicians Reach Agreement on Cannabis Legalization Bill

German leaders have reached a final agreement on cannabis legalization as a crucial vote approaches in the last week of February. The law is expected to take effect in April, bringing with it a dramatic shift in drug policy, focusing on prevention and health. Roll-out will see phased implementation, starting with legalization for adults in April, followed by Cannabis Clubs in July.

In Germany, leaders of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Free Democratic Party (FDP), and the Greens have announced a final agreement on a bill aimed at legalizing cannabis.

This resolution comes after lengthy discussions and revisions that have paved the way for a crucial vote on the bill in the last week of February, with the law expected to come into effect in April.

The proposed regulation is hailed as a significant step in modern drug policy, focusing on prevention, health improvement, and the protection of children and youth.

For more news like this, along with all the latest in legalization, research, and lifestyle, download our free cannabis news app.

The Upcoming Legalization of Cannabis in Germany

The legalization initiative, launched last year by Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, has undergone considerable adjustments to address concerns from various political parties, particularly those of the SPD: easing restrictions, increasing home possession limits, and eliminating prison sentences for possession of a slightly higher quantity than the allowed limit.

Mr. Lauterbach has consistently emphasized the urgency of combating the black market, decriminalizing cannabis, and strengthening the protection of minors, calling this initiative a “new start” for drug policy in Germany.

The proposed legislation already included a study on youth-related trends following legalization, with a report due four years after the law’s enactment. The recent agreement goes further by requiring an evaluation of the reform’s impact on the illicit market.

Kristine Lütke, of the Free Democratic Party, stated: “We are paving the way for a completely different approach to cannabis and the recognition of life’s realities.”

German Legislators Agree to Phased Implementation Strategy

Legislators have strategically staggered the implementation of the reform. Possession and home cultivation are expected to become legal for adults in April, followed by the opening of Cannabis Clubs that can distribute cannabis to their members starting in July.

A complementary second phase is being developed and is expected to allow pilot programs for regulated cannabis sales in German cities. This part is set to be unveiled after being reviewed by the European Commission.

Final Reading to Mark Significant Milestone

The final reading of the bill in the Bundestag will mark a significant milestone, leading to the Bundesrat, where representatives of the German states will vote. It is noteworthy that attempts to block the proposed reform by Bundesrat members in September were unsuccessful.

Germany’s adoption of full cannabis legalization marks a paradigm shift in drug policy, with a more nuanced, preventive, and health-focused approach that could set a precedent in Europe.

—

(Featured image by Ansgar Scheffold via Unsplash)

DISCLAIMER: This article was written by a third-party contributor and does not reflect the opinion of Hemp.im, its management, staff, or its associates. Please review our disclaimer for more information.

This article may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “become,” “plan,” “will,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks as well as uncertainties, including those discussed in the following cautionary statements and elsewhere in this article and on this site. Although the company may believe that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, the actual results that the company may achieve may differ materially from any forward-looking statements, which reflect the opinions of the management of the company only as of the date hereof. Additionally, please make sure to read these important disclosures.

First published in Newsweed, a third-party contributor translated and adapted the article from the original. In case of discrepancy, the original will prevail.

Although we made reasonable efforts to provide accurate translations, some parts may be incorrect. Hemp.im assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or ambiguities in the translations provided on this website. Any person or entity relying on translated content does so at their own risk. Hemp.im is not responsible for losses caused by such reliance on the accuracy or reliability of translated information. If you wish to report an error or inaccuracy in the translation, we encourage you to contact us.