German lawmakers are set to vote on a government proposal to relax regulations on cannabis, with the aim of decriminalizing limited amounts of marijuana and permitting the establishment of 'cannabis clubs' for recreational use. The vote in the Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, is scheduled for Friday.
The plan, which received approval from Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Cabinet, is a key initiative of the socially liberal ruling coalition. However, it faces strong opposition from the main conservative bloc and some members of the center-left Social Democrats.
If passed, the legislation would legalize possession of up to 25 grams of marijuana for adults for recreational purposes, as well as allow individuals to cultivate up to three plants for personal use, starting April 1. Additionally, German residents aged 18 and above would be permitted to join nonprofit 'cannabis clubs' with a maximum of 500 members each, beginning July 1.
Members of these clubs would be able to purchase up to 25 grams of cannabis per day, with a monthly limit of 50 grams (30 grams for those under 21). The clubs' operational costs would be covered by membership fees, which would be adjusted based on individual usage.
The proposed legislation includes restrictions such as a ban on cannabis advertising or sponsorship, and prohibits clubs and consumption in close proximity to schools, playgrounds, and sports facilities. An assessment of the law's impact on the protection of children and adolescents is planned within 18 months of its implementation.
Notably, the current plan represents a scaled-back version of the government's initial ambitions, which aimed to allow cannabis sales to adults nationwide through licensed outlets. The revised proposal followed discussions with the European Commission to align with EU regulations.
