Germany is edging towards a potentially groundbreaking law, with the imminent possibility of introducing a bill that could legalize cannabis in the coming weeks.
In an article by CNBC this week, German Health Minister, Karl Lauterbach indicated the European Commission has given positive feedback on the country’s pot plans, which could be announced by the end of March or in early April. Under the proposed reforms, cannabis would no longer be classified as a narcotic. Adults over 18 would be allowed to possess up to 30 grams for personal use and grow up to three plants at home.
Licensed stores and pharmacies would also be able to sell cannabis products. If passed, the legislation would make Germany the world's largest regulated national cannabis market and the first EU country to permit the commercial sale of weed. Germany’s move toward legalization could have significant implications for the bloc, as it may encourage other European countries to consider similar reforms. Neighboring Luxembourg and the Czech Republic have proposed plans to legalize cannabis for adult use, while Austria, Italy, and Spain have decriminalized possession of small amounts for personal consumption.
Legalizing cannabis in Germany could create 27,000 new jobs and generate an additional $5 billion per year
in tax revenues, social security contributions, and criminal prosecution savings, according to a 2021 study from Heinrich Heine University Dusseldorf. However, the government must tread carefully to ensure the bill is 420 friendly toward EU laws, international drug treaties, and public health concerns.
EU regulation requires member states to enforce criminal penalties for the sale of illicit drugs, including cannabis. Germany's proposals would also have to demonstrate that they do not disrupt the country's medical marijuana market, which has been legal since 2016. While some medical professionals have warned that legalization of cannabis for recreational use could raise risks for patients, who may seek to self-medicate, wider societal acceptance could help destigmatize the plant and improve public understanding of its medical benefits.
Some experts believe that progress in Europe could accelerate the liberalization of the global cannabis market, particularly if the United States changes its stance on a federal level. Steffen Geyer, director of Berlin's Hanf Museum, said, "We need examples like Germany, like Europe, to show that society will not collapse if you make it legal on a bigger scale." If approved, the bill could be implemented in phases between now and mid-2024.
