Germany has officially legalised the possession and controlled cultivation of marijuana in the country. After a long debate with lots of protests from opposition and medical associations, the German government took this step. The legalisation will be in effect from April as the bill to decriminalise marijuana possession was passed on Friday. This bill talks about possession, public smoking, and cultivation of cannabis. Here’s everything you need to know about this move so far.
Germany Legalises Recreational Use Of Marijuana
The German parliament has voted to legalise the possession and controlled cultivation of cannabis for recreational use. Starting in April, this new law will make it possible for individuals to keep 25 grams of the drug per day for personal use. They can obtain marijuana by regulated cannabis cultivation associations. Furthermore, people can also have up to three cannabis plants at home.
However, it is to be noted that this law allows the use of marijuana for citizens above the age of 18 only. According to reports, these are some of the most liberal cannabis laws in Europe. This new law brings Germany in line with Malta and Luxembourg – both known for their relaxed marijuana laws.
Despite fierce objections from the opposition and medical associations, the German government was able to pass this law. German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach said that there is a massive increase in people using marijuana from the black market. This marijuana can be contaminated and cause severe health issues for people. To counter this, the German government moved the parliament to pass this new law.
As per the new law, an individual can obtain enough marijuana to make up to 75 joints every day. However, there is a limit of 50 grams of usage per month. So far, Germany has laws that allow restricted personal use of cannabis. This was mainly for people with certain medical conditions. However, private recreational use of this drug has been banned so far.
Also Read: Solo Euro Trip: Backpacking Across Germany, Switzerland & Hungary Led Me To My Fave Place On Earth
Countries Where Marijuana is Legal For Consumption
Germany isn’t the first country to legalise marijuana. Various European countries have been on this list with liberal laws. Some of them are Malta, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and Spain. Other countries like Canada, Uruguay, Georgia, Mexico, Thailand, Chile, Jamaica, Ecuador, South Africa, Colombia, Argentina, Costa Rica, and Belize also have legalised marijuana in the past.
What are your thoughts on this new law in Germany? Let us know in the comments!
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