Germany to Legalize Recreational Cannabis No Earlier Than 2024
German lawmakers will not be able to pass the legislation to legalize recreational cannabis on time, meaning cannabis will not be legalized in Germany before 2024.
Legalization Delayed Until 2024
In April, Germany’s Health Minister Karl Lauterbach announced that drug policy reform had been given priority status, and that cannabis would be legalized by the end of 2023. However, Lauterbach recently changed his tone, stating in an interview: “Debates on the legalization of cannabis will take place, even if the document is not presented on time by January 1, 2024.”
It turns out that the Bundesrat, which consists of members of the state governments, will not be able to review the legalization decree before February 2, 2024. Representatives of the legislative body cited a busy schedule as the reason the drug policy reform could not be added to the agenda.
The Bundestag is also delaying the adoption of the bill. Lawmakers had planned to hold debates on lifting the cannabis ban back on October 13, but the discussion was postponed to December due to disagreements.
Strong Opposition to Cannabis Legalization
The idea of legalizing cannabis, proposed by the German federal government, has unexpectedly faced strong resistance. Opponents include members of medical associations, police officers, and judges. On the other side are supporters of drug policy reform, such as lawyers and addiction specialists.
According to recent polls, 45% of Germans oppose legalization, 40% support it, and 15% remain undecided. One of the most vocal opponents is Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder, who believes Germany would be making a mistake by lifting the cannabis ban. His party colleague from the Christian Social Union, Klaus Holetschek, described the actions of legalization supporters as “desperate attempts to find loopholes and bypass legal obstacles.”
What the Law Would Allow
Even if the legislation is passed, the sale of cannabis in Germany will formally remain prohibited. Adults will be allowed to possess and gift up to 25 grams of cannabis, as well as grow up to three cannabis plants for personal use. Licensed cannabis clubs will be permitted to supply cannabis to their members in exchange for membership fees.