The German parliament has backed a new law to allow the recreational use of cannabis. Under the law, over-18s in Germany will be allowed to grow up to three plants for private consumption and hold up to 50g of cannabis at home, or 25g in public. This makes Germany the third country in the European Union to fully legalize limited adult-use cannabis. The bill, which was approved by lawmakers in the Bundestag, legalizes possession and cultivation of the drug for recreational purposes, but stops short of turning the country into the world’s largest marijuana market.

Key Points:

The German parliament has passed a new law allowing the recreational use of cannabis.

Over-18s will be able to grow up to three plants and possess up to 50g of cannabis at home.

Germany becomes the third country in the European Union to legalize limited adult-use cannabis.

Lawmakers in the Bundestag voted in favor of the legislation, but Germany’s marijuana market remains smaller than other countries.

The passage of the legislation in the German parliament marks a significant step towards the liberalization of cannabis laws in the country. The decision to federally legalize limited adult-use cannabis reflects the changing attitudes towards the drug and the growing acceptance of its recreational use. However, the law still imposes certain limitations, such as the restriction on the number of plants that can be grown and the maximum quantity of cannabis that can be possessed. This approach aims to strike a balance between allowing personal use while preventing the widespread commercialization and distribution of marijuana.

“The legalization of cannabis in Germany is a response to the shifting public opinion and the recognition of the need for a regulated market. It is a step towards harm reduction and acknowledges the reality that many adults choose to use cannabis recreationally,” said Karl Lauterbach, a prominent member of the German parliament.

The legalization of cannabis in Germany has been a topic of debate for several years, with advocates arguing for its potential economic benefits and the need to prevent criminalization of users. The decision to legalize limited possession and cultivation of cannabis reflects a more pragmatic approach compared to the complete prohibition that existed before. However, the legislation has been criticized by some who believe it does not go far enough in terms of overall accessibility and regulation of the drug. Nonetheless, the move by the German parliament sets a precedent for other countries in the European Union to consider similar legislation.

“Germany’s decision to legalize limited adult-use cannabis sends a strong signal to other countries in the European Union. It shows that a regulated market can be established while addressing concerns about public health and safety,” said a spokesperson for a cannabis advocacy group.

Overall, the legalization of cannabis in Germany represents a significant development in the ongoing global debate surrounding the legality and regulation of the drug. As more countries consider similar legislation, there is a growing recognition of the potential benefits and challenges associated with its recreational use. The German parliament’s decision reflects a pragmatic approach that takes into account public opinion, harm reduction, and the need for regulation, while still imposing certain limitations to prevent the uncontrolled commercialization of cannabis.