Germany's Cannabis Act: Legalization, Limits, and Future Uncertainty
The Cannabis Act, a controversial piece of legislation, has been implemented in Germany. Passed by the Bundestag on February 23, 2024, and coming into force on April 1, 2024, the act aims to balance the potential benefits and drawbacks of cannabis legalization.
The act, introduced by the 'Ampelkoalition' government, allows adults to cultivate up to three cannabis plants privately and possess up to 25 grams in public or 50 grams at home. However, the sending and delivery of 'finished' cannabis remains prohibited, and supplying cannabis to minors or advertising recreational cannabis is illegal.
The act also introduces communal, non-commercial cultivation for personal use in cultivation associations, with members aged 21 and above able to obtain 50 grams of dried cannabis per month. Since July 1, 2024, these associations, consisting of up to 500 members, have been legal. Cultivation associations require permission from the competent authority, with strict security measures and reliable board members being necessary.
The Cannabis Act is based on a two-pillar model. The first step legalizes personal cultivation and medical cannabis, while the second step plans regional model projects for commercial production and sale. The handling of violations against the cannabis law varies in each federal state, with some states still developing fines catalogs and clear responsibilities.
Consumption must not take place in the presence of minors or near certain public spaces, and a limit of 3.5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood applies in road traffic. One year after the act came into force, there are no systematic nationwide assessments of its effects, and an evaluation is not yet possible due to the time required for cannabis plants to grow and the lengthy permit process for cultivation associations.
The Cannabis Act, a year after its implementation, has brought changes to cannabis laws in Germany. While it allows for personal cultivation and possession, it also introduces strict regulations and limitations. The full effects of the act remain to be seen, with evaluations not yet possible due to the time required for cannabis plants to grow and the permit process for cultivation associations.
