Germany Legalizes Cannabis Possession
Germany has legalized cannabis possession for personal use, allowing individuals to carry up to 25 grams in public and 50 grams at home. The law also permits individuals to own three plants for self-cultivation. This change follows years of campaigning by Federal health minister Karl Lauterbach.
Key Points
- Germany's Federal health minister Karl Lauterbach pushed through the cannabis legalization law
- Individuals can possess up to 25 grams of cannabis in public and 50 grams at home
- The law allows for self-cultivation of up to three plants
- Cannabis 'clubs' will be legalized for joint cultivation
- The law aims to combat the black market for cannabis
Pros
- Reduction in black market sales of impure cannabis
- Individuals previously convicted of cannabis possession will have their sentences ruled 'inadmissible'
- Allows for personal use and cultivation, potentially reducing criminalization for small-scale possession
Cons
- Opposition from political opponents, doctors, and police
- Some medical associations cite mental health risks
- Conservative states within Germany have expressed opposition and made efforts to delay the legalization