Legal cannabis could soon be a reality in Germany.
Germany’s Ministry of Health on July 5 published a draft bill proposing the legalization and regulation of cannabis for personal use and home growing, as well as the establishment of cannabis growers’ associations, according to Forbes.
The proposed legislation, the Cannabis Act, is part of a two-pillar plan for Germany to legalize cannabis, with the second pillar set to conduct regional pilot projects with commercial supply chains. The Pillar 2 legislation is expected to be submitted for review to the European Commission in the second half of 2023, according to the Ministry of Health.
Under the first pillar Cannabis Act, German adults aged 18 or older would be allowed to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal use and grow a maximum of three cannabis plants. The legislation is part of a two-pillar plan for Germany to legalize cannabis, with the second pillar
However, cannabis consumption would still be prohibited under certain circumstances. That includes prohibiting cannabis consumption in the “immediate vicinity” of people under 18, as well as within 200 meters of schools, playgrounds, children’s and youth facilities, publicly accessible sports facilities, and pedestrian zones between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.
In addition, the proposed legislation would also establish cannabis growers’ associations, which would be allowed to accept up to 500 members. The legislation also proposed a cap on the number of associations allowed, setting a limit of one association per 6,000 residents in a district or urban area. Association members would be eligible to receive either 25 grams per day of 50 grams per month for personal use, and associations would be authorized to supply members with up to five cannabis cuttings or seven seeds per month.
Cannabis consumption, however, would be prohibited both inside association buildings and within 200 meters of their entrance. Associations would also be prohibited from advertising or sponsoring their activities under the legislation.
In addition, the proposed legislation would remove cannabis from the Narcotics Drugs Act. That would benefit Germany’s medical cannabis industry and allow patients to obtain a cannabis prescription as their medication.
The Cannabis Act is expected to be approved by Germany’s Federal Cabinet by August, and would then be need to be reviewed by the country’s federal parliament, according to Forbes.
