Germany recently passed the law to allow partial possession of cannabis and smoking in public by adults.
The country’s parliament voted to legalize cannabis possession in a momentous vote on February 23, 2024 — a law that would allow people over the age of 18 to possess substantial amounts of the drug in public from today, April 1, 2024, as reported by BBC.
Here are five things to know about Germany’s legalisation of Cannabis:
1. The Law is brand new
Germany only legalised possession and consumption of cannabis for personal use and it became effective from today, April 1st, 2024.
2. Limited amounts and cannabis plants
People over the age of 18 (Adults) have the right to possess up to 25 grams in public places, and up to 50 grams in private settings. They can have up to 3 cannabis plants at home for personal use as well.
3. Restrictions on public smoking
Public consumption is allowed, but not around children, sports facilities, or in pedestrian zones between 7 am and 8 pm. This law still keeps cannabis consumption illegal to children while people ages 18 to 21 are prohibited from buying more than 30 grams of cannabis.
4. Cannabis Social Club
Regulated access is coming. By July 2024, licensed cannabis social clubs with up to 500 members will be allowed to operate, facilitating purchase and limited cultivation. Though club members would not be allowed to consume cannabis inside or within 200 meters of those clubs, this club are prohibited from being within 200 meters of any school or daycare center.
5. It’s not entirely free
This is a partial legalisation. Cannabis sales are still illegal, and the law aims to regulate and control access, not make it freely available.
