The Final Hurdle Cleared
Germany’s journey towards legalizing the recreational use of cannabis is on track, with the upper house of parliament recently giving its approval without any delays.
Political Maneuvers
Lawmakers in the Bundesrat, representing Germany’s regional-level legislative body, failed to reach a majority on Friday regarding the referral of the legislation to a mediation committee. This decision averted a potential six-month postponement.
Just before the crucial vote, German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach presented a “protocol declaration” to the Bundesrat, addressing concerns and effectively preventing any setback in the implementation process.
“The fight was worth it, legalization of cannabis is coming on Easter Monday!” Lauterbach expressed his satisfaction after the Federal Council did not deem it necessary to send the bill to the mediation committee.
Government Support and the Road Ahead
In a significant move in late February, the Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, voted decisively (407 to 226) to pass the bill proposed by Germany’s ruling parties, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD).
The legislation, scheduled to come into effect on April 1, partially legalizes marijuana use across the country. Under the new law, Germans will be permitted to carry up to 25 grams of cannabis in public spaces and up to 50 grams in private residences.
“Please use the new opportunity responsibly and help protect children and young people. Hopefully, this is the beginning of the end for the black market today,” Lauterbach stated, emphasizing the importance of responsible use and aiming to curb illegal market activities with the forthcoming implementation.
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