Germany approves landmark law to legalize recreational cannabis

After a tumultuous session in the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament backed the measure with 407 votes in favor and 226 against, marking a milestone in the country’s drug policy.

From April 1, German citizens over the age of 18 will have the legal right to possess significant quantities of cannabis. The law sets possession limits of up to 25 grams in public spaces and 50 grams in private homes. This significant change means that smoking cannabis in many public places will no longer give rise to criminal prosecution.

The impetus behind this law comes from a number of concerns and goals, highlighting the need to combat the cannabis black market, protect consumers from tainted products, and suppress the revenue of criminal organizations that profit from trafficking drug. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has been a leading supporter of these reforms, saying legalization would help control and regulate cannabis use, particularly among young people.

A person lights a joint as marijuana activists gather to mark World Cannabis Day and protest against the legalization of marijuana, in front of the Brandenburg Gate, in Berlin, Germany, April 20, 2022. Photo: Reuters

However, the law’s approval was not without controversy. For years, a fierce debate over cannabis decriminalization has raged in Germany, with medical groups expressing concerns about the public health effects of cannabis use and conservatives fearing that liberalization would encourage greater use of cannabis. drugs.

Despite criticism, the law represents an important change in German drug policy and an adaptation to the reality of cannabis use in German society. Implementation of the law should be gradual and accompanied by strict regulations to ensure safety and consumer protection.

It’s important to note that the passage of this law does not mean that cannabis cafes will become a common sight across the country overnight. The process of legalizing and establishing regulations for the sale of cannabis should be carefully managed by authorities to avoid problems related to abuse and public health.

Source: Latercera

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