Germany Amends Cannabis Legalization Bill, Balancing Reform and Regulation

BERLIN- German lawmakers have significantly revised the country’s cannabis legalization bill, incorporating feedback from cannabis reform advocates and aiming for the bill’s enactment in the upcoming spring. This development, as reported by Marijuana Moment, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s approach to cannabis regulation.

The revised bill, emerging from intensive negotiations, includes key amendments that reflect a more nuanced stance towards cannabis possession and cultivation. Notably, the penalties for possessing slightly more than the legally permissible amount of cannabis have been softened. Possession of 25 to 30 grams, previously treated as a criminal offense, will now be regarded as an administrative violation. Additionally, the limit for home cultivation has been raised from 25 to 50 grams, with possession of 50 to 60 grams also being reclassified as an administrative violation.

Initially introduced in April, the bill represented a more restrained version of the original proposal, shaped in part by discussions with the European Union (E.U.), which advocated a gradual approach to legalization.

The bill also addresses public cannabis consumption. Rules have been updated, prohibiting cannabis use within 100 meters of a school, a reduction from the previous 200-meter boundary. This information was detailed by the Legal Tribune Online, which also noted that the implementation of these reforms would be staggered. Possession and home cultivation for adults are set to begin in April, with the establishment of social clubs following in July.

A critical aspect of the revised bill is the introduction of more stringent penalties for selling cannabis to minors. Additionally, the legislation plans to establish commercial sales pilot programs in various cities, a proposal to be presented following a review by the European Commission.

Green Party lawmaker Kirsten Kappert-Gonther praised the bill’s improvements, particularly highlighting the balance it strikes between decriminalizing adult consumption and implementing regulations to protect youth and public health.

The bill’s passage in the Bundestag will shift focus to the Bundesrat, which represents the German states. Previously, the Bundesrat attempted to block cannabis reform but was unsuccessful.

Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, leading the bill’s push, has stressed the importance of public education on the risks associated with cannabis consumption. The Federal Cabinet approved the initial legalization framework last year, aiming for E.U. compliance and adherence to international obligations. This proposal represents a comprehensive effort by the German government, factoring in extensive internal review, international dialogues on cannabis policy, and coalition government negotiations.