The Ampel coalition’s proposal to legalize cannabis has drawn harsh criticism from the Bavarian Association of Districts. The Bavarian Association of Districts is led by Thomas Karmasin. He criticizes the action, arguing that legalizing marijuana under the pretense of “enhanced health protection” is a flagrant disrespect for the hard work of medical professionals who operate within a system that is already overburdened by federal regulations.
Following internal reconciliations, the coalition declared plans to legalize cannabis, with an aim to take effect by April 1, 2024. Despite earlier differences, the Ampel factions have now reached an agreement, meaning that the law is likely to pass the Bundestag in the coming weeks. The Bundesrat is expected to raise few objections, allowing the measure to be approved by spring, since every state administration, except Bavaria’s, includes at least one person from the Ampel party.
The new law’s detractors
Karmasin questions the coalition’s approach. He alleges that the government’s fear of popular outrage is evident in the way that genuine concerns raised by members of the coalition have been disregarded in favor of minor adjustments to evaluation processes. He continues by accusing the Federal Minister of Health of ignoring scientific evidence that connects regular cannabis use to a higher risk of mental health issues because it serves his political agenda.
Local governments are alarmed by the proposed legislation, especially in light of the expected burden it would place on already overburdened authorities. Karmasin draws attention to the significant load that the bill would put on youth offices, requiring them to step up their efforts in early intervention and prevention without sufficient support from the government.
A University of Hamburg study that uses data from nations where cannabis is now legal to forecast a large increase in cannabis usage after legalization lends credence to these worries. The study indicates that prolonged legalization may result in long-term increases in consumption, especially among teenagers, even if the short-term effects on consumption would not be very significant.
The ghost of Portland, Oregon, whose permissive drug laws led to a spike in drug addiction and a sharp fall in standard of living, should serve as a warning. Cities in East and Bavaria may experience similar situations, particularly if their neighbors continue to impose severe drug regulations.
The medical community is also becoming more and more opposed to the legalization proposals; the president of the German Medical Association is teaming up with law enforcement and educational institutions to draw attention to the possible dangers of legalizing cannabis.
The Bavarian Association of Districts remains unwavering in its opposition to the proposed law while the debate rages on, advocating for a more responsible approach to government that puts public health and safety ahead of political expediency and reevaluating priorities.