Green light for grass: Cannabis for adults is now legal in Germany

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Since midnight, it has become legal for adults to possess and consume cannabis in Germany, subject to certain conditions. The relevant cannabis law came into force on April 1, which the traffic light coalition pushed through despite major resistance from opposition parties, federal states and medical, judicial and police associations.

Federal Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach (61) defended this move once again. “Today we are putting an end to a failed ban policy,” the SPD politician said in a statement to the German Press Agency in Berlin. This is a historic opportunity. «We now combine a real alternative to the black market with better child and youth protection. “Things could not continue as they were before,” the Minister added.

The ban had little effect

The government argues that despite the ban, cannabis consumption is increasing, the black market is growing, and cannabis purchased there may be associated with increased health risks. The active ingredient content is unknown and may contain toxic additives and impurities.

As a first step, adults will now be allowed to possess, privately cultivate and consume cannabis in certain amounts. In a second step, from July, so-called cultivation associations will be allowed to grow cannabis under state control under strict conditions and distribute it to their members. The law also provides for measures to prevent addiction.

Smoking weed in public on a limited basis

Once it comes into force, cannabis will disappear from the list of prohibited substances in the Narcotics Act. People over the age of 18 are now allowed to carry up to 25 grams of drugs in public and are allowed to carry up to 50 grams of drugs at home. It is also allowed to have up to three cannabis plants at home. Smoking weed is allowed in public places, but is prohibited near children and teenagers, schools, nurseries, playgrounds and sports fields, and in pedestrian areas during the day.

Violations may be punishable by significant fines. Distributing the drug (except in clubs) remains a criminal offense and carries the risk of imprisonment, especially if minors are involved. Marijuana remains prohibited to youth under 18 years of age. (SDA)

Source :Blick