German Cannabis Legalization Update Lauterbach presents first draft cannabis law
Health Minister Karl Lauterbach has taken the next step towards the legalization of cannabis: at the end of the month he presented a first draft law. The first details have become known from government circles.
Berlin. Shortly before the end of the month, Federal Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach (SPD) presented the first draft law for the planned legalization of cannabis, as promised. A spokesman for his ministry confirmed this on request. The draft was given to the so-called departmental vote this Friday - this means that it has now been sent to the other ministries for inspection and examination. Initially, nothing was known about the specific content, as draft laws are not usually made public during this phase.
From government circles it was said that the draft takes up the well-known cornerstones of the project. Among other things, this involves the release of cannabis within special associations, so-called cannabis clubs. According to the key points, the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis and the cultivation of a maximum of three plants for personal use should be permitted.
At first no free sale in special stores
There will initially not be a free sale in special shops, as originally intended. It is planned to test this later as a pilot project in some municipalities via another law.
After the departmental vote, the cabinet must get the draft law on the way, after which it is the turn of the Bundestag and Bundesrat. When the first part of the cannabis legalization will come into force is still open. Pro-cannabis representatives in the traffic light coalition are aiming for this year.
RND/dpa