The law does not require approval by the Federal Council. In principle, the state chamber could convene the mediation committee with the Bundestag and delay the process.
The far-reaching rupture in drug policy was discussed controversially until recently. Adults aged 18 and over must generally be permitted to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal consumption. Three live cannabis plants must become legal in your own home and up to 50 grams of cannabis for personal consumption. Smoking marijuana in public spaces should be prohibited, among other things, in schools, sports facilities and within sight of them – specifically within 100 meters of the straight-line entrance area.
Non-commercial “cultivation associations” for adults should also be permitted, in which up to 500 German-resident members grow cannabis together and sell it to each other for their own consumption – a maximum of 50 grams per member per month. No later than 18 months after the law comes into force, an initial assessment should be available on, among other things, how it affects the protection of children and young people.
German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach promoted the plans. The current situation “is in no way acceptable”, said the SPD politician in the debate before the vote, given the increase in the number of consumers and the “toxic concentrations” of cannabis resulting from criminal drug trafficking. “The black market is the heart of evil.” Every fight against the black market is an important step towards protecting young people. Therefore, a legal offer must be created. At the same time, Lauterbach emphasized the planned stronger clarification. “We don’t trivialize.” Many young people are unaware that cannabis use acts as a “brain poison” for the growing brain.
Green health politician Kirsten Kappert-Gonther said: “We are ending the harmful prohibition policy. We are freeing up hemp.” This strengthens the health and protection of young people. FDP political expert Kristine Lütke spoke of a “historic turn” towards an approach that corresponds to social reality. With home-grown cannabis, consumers would know where it comes from. In addition, the path to a drug dealer and other much more dangerous drugs becomes significantly longer.
The Union and the AfD opposed the plans. “The protection of children and young people is nothing more than mere lip service in your law,” said CDU health policy Simone Borchardt. Doctors, police and psychotherapists and all interior ministers warned against it. Home cultivation cannot be controlled. CSU regional group leader Alexander Dobrindt told dpa that legalization would lead to more dependency, more social problems and less security, especially for young people. “This law cannot be controlled and is a gift to organized crime in Germany.” Jörg Schneider (AfD) warned of an “economic stimulus program for organized crime”.
According to a survey, the overall assessment of cannabis legalization paints a mixed picture. In a survey carried out by polling institute YouGov, 42 percent said they were partially or completely in favor of legalization. 47 percent said they would partially or completely reject it. 11 percent did not comment on the matter, according to the survey made available to the German Press Agency on Friday.