German MPs agree on revised cannabis legalization bill

German MPs have reached agreement on the text of the legalization of cannabis in Germany which will be put to the vote in the Bundestag next week, with the support of the coalition government.

The final text relaxes some of the proposed regulations, winning cross-party support and paving the way for a decisive vote in the Bundestag.

A Green Party MP, Kirsten Kappert-Gonther, explained that negotiations on the text had enabled «practical rules to be found that guarantee the protection of young people and health, and make the decriminalization of adult consumers a reality».

Key negotiating points

One of the cornerstones of the legislation is the reduction of restrictions on the possession and consumption of cannabis. Prohibited consumption zones around squares, playgrounds and schools have been halved from 200 to 100 meters. The law also introduces a tolerance margin for cannabis possession. Possession of 25 to 30 grams, which would previously have been penalized, is now considered a minor offence, with criminal charges applying only to quantities exceeding this range.

Important changes have also been made with regard to personal cultivation. The authorized quantity of self-grown dried cannabis has been doubled, from 25 to 50 grams. Possession of less than 60 grams is considered a minor offence, with criminal charges applying above this limit. The legislation specifies that the authorized quantity refers to dried cannabis and not to just-harvested flowers (which weigh more).

Another key aspect of the law is the establishment of a new THC limit for drivers, The current limit of one nanogram per milliliter of blood is considered too low. A specialized commission will be tasked with proposing a revised threshold by March 31, 2024.

Implementation of the law is planned in stages. Provisions relating to personal cultivation and the decriminalization of possession are due to come into force on March 1, while regulations relating to Cannabis Clubs should be active by June 1 or July 1.

The authorities are also planning to introduce a a second, complementary measure that would establish pilot programs for commercial sales in the country's cities. The legislation is expected to be unveiled after being submitted to the European Commission for review.

Once the Bundestag has passed the legalization measure, Ms. Kappert-Gonther said lawmakers «will continue to work together on the second pillar,» which concerns the commercial sales pilot program.

After next week's vote, it will be several months before the bill is considered by the Bundesrat, a separate legislative body representing the German states. Members of the Bundesrat tried to block the reform proposed in September, but failed to do so.