Germany’s planned cannabis legalization could save over a billion euros annually, relieving law enforcement, courts, and prisons. Despite some opposition, including conflicts with broader EU laws, proponents hope cannabis legalization will be introduced by the end of 2023, positioning Germany alongside other nations that see it as a means for harm reduction and revenue generation.
The planned legalization of cannabis in Germany could result in savings amounting to billions of euros in crime enforcement. This stems from a new legislative proposal, which could significantly alleviate the burdens on law enforcement, courts, and prisons.
For more news like this, download our free cannabis news app.
The German Ministry of Health estimates annual savings at over a billion euros. The proposal outlines 800 million euros in savings from relieving law enforcement, 220 million euros from unburdening the courts, and 35 million saved by not incarcerating consumers in penal institutions.
Free sale of cannabis in stores will not be permitted. However, possession up to 25 grams and cultivation of a maximum of three plants for personal use for individuals over 18 will be allowed in Germany. “Cannabis clubs” will be able to grow and distribute cannabis for adults, adhering to strict rules.
Consumption within these clubs and within a 200-meter radius will not be allowed. The areas where cannabis is stored and grown must be secured, including break-in-resistant doors and windows.
Those in charge of addiction prevention in cannabis clubs will need to ensure compliance with limits on plant protection measures and residues in the final product.
Club members in Germany can receive up to 50 grams of cannabis monthly in “neutral packaging” designed to not encourage consumption among youth.
Cannabis consumption will be allowed in public spaces in Germany, so long as it is at a distance of at least 200 meters from schools, kindergartens, playgrounds, or sports fields. In pedestrian zones, consumption is set to be banned between 7 am and 8 pm.
The final draft of the law is expected to reach the German government by mid-August. Following that, the Bundestag and Bundesrat will vote on its enactment.
States opposed to legalization in Germany, such as Bavaria, will not be able to block the proposal. Proponents of legalization in the Ampel coalition hope it can be introduced by the end of 2023.
With these measures, Germany may join the growing number of countries that have opted for cannabis legalization, seeing in it not just harm reduction but also a new revenue source and a way to unburden the judiciary and law enforcement.
—
(Featured image courtesy of Pixabay via Pexels)
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 Fakty Konopne, 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.
Polish lawmakers have submitted a non-binding petition to Prime Minister Donald Tusk, urging cannabis decriminalization…
The UK medical cannabis market has rapidly grown since legalization in 2018, with private actors…
A new study involving over 23,000 participants in New Zealand found that 60% of people…
The French Ministers of the Interior and Justice announced a comprehensive plan to tackle organized…
Germany’s first legally grown cannabis distribution took place at the Ganderkesee Cannabis Social Club in…
Dallas, Texas, has voted to decriminalize possession of up to 4 ounces of cannabis, bringing…