Germany Dilutes Plan To Legalize Cannabis

BERLIN, April 12 (Reuters) – Germany has taken a significant step in its mission to legalize cannabis, presenting a revised bill that focuses on responsible consumption and community-based distribution. While the government has scaled back earlier plans for widespread retail sales, the new legislation still marks a bold move to legalize cannabis in Europe's largest economy.

Under the updated proposal, adults will be allowed to possess up to 25 grams of recreational cannabis per day and up to 50 grams per month. For individuals under 21, the limit is capped at 30 grams per month. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach emphasized that the previous cannabis policies had failed, stating, "Now we have to go new ways." This declaration underscores Germany's commitment to legalize cannabis through a system that prioritizes health, safety, and education.

The legislation, introduced jointly by the health, justice, and agriculture ministries, follows discussions with the European Commission. The earlier draft, which proposed sales in licensed shops nationwide, has been adjusted after talks with EU authorities. However, a pilot program will allow a limited number of shops in select regions to test the commercial supply chain's effects on public health and the black market. This pilot initiative demonstrates that Germany's intent to legalize cannabis remains strong, despite EU regulatory concerns.

Many European nations have already made progress to legalize cannabis for medicinal purposes or decriminalize its recreational use. The Netherlands, for instance, permits limited sales in coffee shops, though it stops short of full legalization. Germany's model to legalize cannabis could therefore set a precedent for other EU countries, paving the way for coordinated reform across the bloc.

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