Germany Announces Plan to Legalize Cannabis
It is still against the law in Germany to buy or sell cannabis, which is also known as marijuana, weed, and other names. The act of cultivating cannabis, as well as possessing it, is still illegal. However, the German federal government is making preparations for the legalization of THC.
Soon, buying and consuming marijuana for its stimulating effects won't require a prescription. As part of their coalition agreement, the Green Party, the Social Democratic Party, and the Federal Government previously reached a consensus on this matter. After that, people who are over the age of 18 will be able to buy marijuana from specialized businesses. The contract talks about a "controlled distribution of cannabis to adults for consumption purposes."
This article includes all of the information that you will need regarding the planned release and the sales points, the maximum allowed for possession and cultivation, as well as the allowed THC percentage.
The Key Points That Have Already Been Decided
On October 26, 2022, the governing council of Germany approved the legalization of recreational cannabis. Many specifics will likely be worked out during a legislative procedure. The key points are as follows.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, may soon no longer be classified as a Schedule I drug. Penalties for obtaining and possessing no more than 20 to 30 grams of "pleasure cannabis" for personal consumption should be reasonable.
- In your own house, you can keep up to "three female plants per adult," as the new regulations state. It would be best if you locked these away from curious young minds.
- To be sold in "licensed specialty stores" (to which customers must be at least 18 years old) and potentially pharmacies.
- Advertising: It will be prohibited for cannabis products.
- Quantity: This will be limited per customer.
Consumable cannabis products like capsules, sprays, and drops will also be available to those 21 and over. Cannabidiol-infused sweets and candies, commonly referred to as "edibles," will initially not.
After four years, the legislation will be evaluated and perhaps updated in several different areas, including health protection, child and adolescent protection, and traffic safety.
When Will Weed Be Legalized?
Germany's Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP) suggested cannabis legalization in 2023 in September 2022. However, that seems almost impossible. As recently as July, Federal Drug Commissioner Burkhard Blienert warned that it was doubtful that the law legalizing cannabis would come into effect until 2024. Karl Lauterbach, minister of health, has also hinted about legalization in 2024: After the council meeting, he summarized the main themes, saying, "But I might well imagine, if everything goes well, that legality will then be achieved in 2024."
Once Marijuana Is Legalized, Where Can You Buy It?
Stores selling cannabis must follow certain rules regarding their accessibility to vulnerable places like schools and youth centers. The advertising of cannabis goods would be restricted even after legalization. There is a discussion about expanding the legal sale of cannabis to include pharmacies.
Many cannabis enthusiasts, including those using the drug in secret, will be pleased to hear this. The vast majority even have secret dreams of one day having the famous Cannabis Cup, where their skills as growers will be challenged against those of the most successful cannabis growers.
