Germany has legalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana for recreational purposes, allowing adults to have up to nearly 1 ounce and grow up to three plants. The law also permits the formation of nonprofit 'cannabis clubs' and includes an amnesty for cannabis-related offenses.
Key Points
Allows possession of nearly 1 ounce of marijuana and growing up to three plants
Establishes nonprofit 'cannabis clubs' with membership limits
Includes an amnesty for cannabis-related offenses
Pros
Allows adults to possess and grow limited amounts of marijuana for recreational use
Formation of nonprofit 'cannabis clubs' to regulate consumption
Amnesty for cannabis-related offenses that are no longer illegal
Cons
Opposition from some federal states and political parties
Concerns about overburdening the judicial system with review of cannabis-related offenses
German Medical Association's worries about the impact on young people