Germany Set to Legalize Recreational Cannabis in Spring 2024
Germany’s Minister of Health, Karl Lauterbach, has announced that the law legalizing recreational cannabis is expected to take effect in spring 2024, despite efforts by conservatives to block the drug policy reform.
Bundestag to Review Cannabis Legalization in February
Lauterbach outlined the government’s plans: “I continue to maintain that the law legalizing cannabis will be passed by the Bundestag during the work week from February 19 to 23. The law will come into force on April 1.”
Once the law is enacted, residents of Germany will be allowed to use, possess, and grow cannabis. Starting July 1, the first cannabis clubs will open, allowing members to purchase cannabis for personal use. However, retail sales of cannabis in stores will remain prohibited until officials approve regulations for commercial distribution, which is expected to happen in 2025.
Karl Lauterbach supports legalization because he believes it will reduce the risks associated with cannabis use. He argues that proper regulation will protect citizens from the dangers of low-quality cannabis sold on the black market and help keep cannabis away from young people.
Cannabis Legalization Faces Criticism
The proposal to lift the ban on cannabis has faced criticism from many officials. For example, the interior ministers of Germany’s federal states believe that drug law reform will negatively impact public health, increase the burden on law enforcement, and threaten public safety.
To address these concerns, Lauterbach has proposed strict oversight of cannabis clubs. According to him, the government could actually save about 7.9 million euros (approximately 8.6 million dollars) annually by reducing criminal justice expenses.
Christine Lütke, the Free Democratic Party’s spokesperson on drug policy, expressed frustration with officials criticizing legalization. She pointed out that they had a year and a half to voice their concerns, and now is not the time to obstruct the liberalization of the law. Meanwhile, Lauterbach remains optimistic about the future of cannabis legalization, stating that negotiations on the bill are progressing successfully.