With 407 votes in favour, 226 against and 4 abstentions, the Bundestag, the lower house of the Parliament of Germany, passed a law authorizing both self-production and recreational consumption of cannabis.
The law, which will come into force on April 1st, allows possession up to 50 grams of cannabis and home cultivation up to 3 seedlings. From July 1st the Cannabis Club: non-profit associations where consumers can obtain supplies.
It is a historic day for all of Europe, not just for the German country, which, after Malta e Luxembourg, opens the passage to new policies (more aware) about drugs, which aim at public health and harm reduction.
"The fight against the black market, decriminalization and better protection of minors will happen as planned. The previous drug policy has failed; a new beginning," he had declared the Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach on X, who pushed for this reform more than anyone.
Legalization of cannabis in Germany: what the law provides
As we read from official press release of the Bundestag, the newly approved law allows adults to own up to 50 grams of cannabis in private spaces. Limit going down to 25 grams in public spaces.
From July 1st, residents of Germany aged 18 or over will be able to join Cannabis Clubs: non-profit organizations that will host up to 500 members, so they will be able to grow cannabis for personal use.
In fact, members of the associations will be able to purchase up to 25 grams of cannabis per day, for a total of 50 grams per month. Limit that drops to 30 grams per month for people aged between 18 and 21. And membership of more than one association would not be permitted.
Finally, "to protect children and young people, there is a ban on advertising clubs and cultivation". And cannabis consumption will be prohibited close to schools, playgrounds and sports facilities.
