The factions of the Ampel Coalition have finally come to an agreement about the proposed legalization of cannabis after months of discussion and debate. It’s a momentous occasion that represents a big stride toward Germany’s current drug policy. Vice Faction Leaders Dagmar Schmidt (SPD), Maria Klein-Schmeink (Greens), and Konstantin Kuhle (FDP) jointly said that the law might take effect on April 1st, subject to the Bundestag’s ratification.
At last reached a consensus?
The deputy chiefs of the three factions said:
“The regulations represent a true milestone for modern drug policy, aimed at strengthening prevention and improving health, child, and youth protection.”
The vice leaders of the three factions underscore that the proposed regulations signify a noteworthy advancement in modern drug policy. The objective is to enhance health protection for children and adolescents and to fortify preventive. Legalization will also aid in decriminalizing consumer behavior and successfully battle the illicit market. The Federal Criminal Police Office will evaluate how the law affects the black market and the protection of children and youth.
The week of February 19–23 has already been suggested by Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) for the law’s parliamentary passage. But the Bundesrat must also approve the measure before it can take effect.
It is imperative that the authorities assess the law’s effects on organized crime and the protection of children and youth as soon as possible. To guarantee a solid study, the Federal Criminal Police Office’s experience will also be incorporated.
Changes anticipated in the near future
There have reportedly been no major alterations made to the plans, according to reports from within the coalition. SPD, Greens, and FDP had decided to take cannabis out of the Narcotics Act as early as November. Adults will be able to grow and possess small amounts of the substance starting on April 1st, 2024. Additionally, clubs for group cultivation will open on July 1.
One of the most important promises made in the Ampel Coalition agreement is its legalization. The law’s adoption in the Bundestag was delayed, nevertheless, in January due to reservations expressed by a few SPD interior politicians. Law enforcement organizations in Germany are also becoming concerned about the possibility of legalizing cannabis. Furthermore, the German Medical Association’s president has stated that he hopes the planned legalization of cannabis in Germany does not pass.
The Ampel Coalition pact includes a commitment to legalization. The previously scheduled action for the start of 2024 had already been delayed. The delay in the Bundestag’s approval of the measure was primarily caused by objections voiced in January by interior politicians of the SPD.
All things considered, Germany’s upcoming legalization of cannabis marks a major advancement toward contemporary, evidence-based drug regulation. We’ll soon find out how the new rules perform in real-world situations and what kind of long-term effects they have on society.