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Germany unveils more details on cannabis legalization
Germany's anticipated cannabis legalization measure is expected to be formally submitted to the cabinet in the coming month. New details about the current version of the adult-use legalization measure have recently been unveiled, providing further insight into what cannabis policy observers inside and outside of Germany can expect from the European nation’s cannabis policy modernization efforts.
Initial details of the legalization measure
For the last two months, an adult-use legalization measure has been under administrative review in Germany. Many high-level details were released to the public via a press conference led by German Health Karl Lauterbach back in April.
It was revealed that there would be a legal age set at 18 years old, a possession limit of 25 grams, and a cultivation limit of 3 plants. Additionally, noncommercial cannabis clubs would be permitted as part of the proposal, and eventually, regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot programs would be launched.
Recent developments in the proposal
The new proposal seems to have evolved a bit, as recapped in a Twitter thread by VOC Nederland. The proposal now states that adults (minimum 19 years old) are allowed to grow up to three cannabis plants, regardless of whether these are male or female plants.
However, unless you work for a cannabis social club, you cannot have more than 25 grams of cannabis at home, even if you grow your own. The government seems to want you to destroy most of the harvest from your legally allowed three plants.
Noncommercial cannabis clubs
Noncommercial cannabis clubs cannot be located within 200 meters of a school, and the number of clubs will be capped at one club for every 6,000 residents according to the recently unveiled proposal.
Cannabis club permits will be valid for up to seven years, and members will be required to remain with the club they join for at least two months before they move their membership to a different club (members can only join one club at a time).
Looking forward
Provisions relating to regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot programs, which will serve as the ‘second phase’ of German legalization, are expected to be released ‘in the second half of 2023.’
As Germany continues to refine its cannabis legalization measure, it is clear that the country is taking a comprehensive approach to reform. The inclusion of provisions for personal cultivation and noncommercial cannabis clubs, along with the planned launch of regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot programs, suggests that Germany is poised to become a leader in cannabis policy in Europe.
