In Germany, opponents of a proposed bill to legalize marijuana failed to gather enough support to block the measure in the Bundesrat, the legislative body representing states. As a result, the bill will continue through the legislative process.
The German legislature comprises two main bodies: the Bundestag, composed of democratically elected lawmakers, and the Bundesrat, representing individual states. The legalization bill was discussed in the Bundesrat, where legislators advocated for amendments but did not prevent its advancement.
The federal government, which initiated the bill, will now respond to the Bundesrat’s comments, after which the legislation will proceed to the Bundestag for possible enactment.
During the debate, various proposals, including one to increase the age limit for legal cannabis possession from 18, were discussed but did not gain support.
The majority of state government representatives did agree that there is a “structural enforcement deficit” in the legislation. They are seeking revisions to ensure that the federal government implements regulations without imposing administrative costs on the states.
The Bundesrat committees made a total of 80 recommendations for revisions to the legalization proposal, covering various aspects such as impaired driving, safety standards for cultivation facilities, and the prohibition of alcohol sales and use at cannabis clubs.
The bill would allow adults to legally possess and cultivate cannabis for personal use and establish social clubs for distribution. It also includes provisions for public education and addressing criminal liability issues.
Germany has been considering cannabis legalization for some time, and this development marks a significant step in that direction. However, the bill still needs to go through additional legislative processes before becoming law
By FCCT Editorial Team
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