German MPs debate cannabis legalization for the first time

Postponed by a few days In the light of events in Israel and Palestine, the first reading of the proposed legalization of cannabis in Germany took place on Wednesday October 18 in the Bundestag, the German parliament.

The bill would, for the time being, authorize adults to possess cannabis and grow up to 3 plants. It would also allow the creation of Cannabis Clubs, growing associations that would divide the harvest of their plants between members of the association. A second phase, not on the agenda, will eventually allow the retail sale of cannabis in specialized stores.

«With this bill, we are describing a new path, a courageous path, a path that stands on the side of those who use it. We have spoken out against state oppression and in favor of a progressive drug policy that educates and grants freedom,» said Carmen Wegge, of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), after recalling that cannabis prohibition had failed.

Green Party member Kirsten Kappert-Gonther said banning cannabis makes it even more dangerous. «Banning the black market increases the risk,» she said, noting that illicit sellers don't provide verified information about the product's ingredients or potency.

«Legalization would also better prevent access by children through identity control requirements,» she added.

«Instead of a thriving illegal market, we're now creating legal alternatives that adults can consume,» said the green MP.

Kristine Lütke, MP for the Free Democratic Party (FDP), acknowledged that the current bill was not definitive, but said it included key provisions such as the minimum distance between cultivation facilities and public schools and other sensitive areas.

Lütke said she hoped lawmakers could refine the bill during the legislative process.

«I know the subject is very emotional, but I think we can now get back to the factual level,» she said, noting that the key points of the proposal were unveiled almost a year ago «and the cannabis bill is now available.».

Opposition political parties have tabled two motions ahead of Wednesday's debate. The first, tabled by the Union (CDU/CSU), calls on legislators to halt the legalization of cannabis, which it says is taking the country «in the wrong direction» and will lead to an increase in cannabis consumption.

«The Federal Ministry of Health is working on legislation to legalize cannabis while warning of the dangers of consumption. Instead of the planned legalization, it is necessary to strengthen prevention and education on the dangers that can arise from cannabis consumption.»

On social networks on Wednesday, Health Minister Lauterbach responded to opposition from the CDU/CSU. In response to the party's assertion that «young people up to the age of 25 are particularly at risk because their brain development is not yet complete», Mr. Lauterbach pointed out that cannabis use among young adults «has been increasing for years» due to the ban in place for adults.

«At the same time, toxic concentrations of THC are increasing and there are more additives,» he writes, suggesting that legal sources of cannabis would be safer for consumers than unregulated sources. «Should we complain about the problem and do nothing?»

Der Konsum „bis zu 25“ nimmt seit Jahren zu. Gleichzeitig steigen Drogenkriminalität, toxische THC Konzentrationen und es gibt mehr Beimengungen. Sollen wir auch hier, wie bei anderen Themen, das Problem beklagen und nichts tun? Wenn Cannabis, dann sicher und ohne Dealer https://t.co/9xMNHprXPg

- Prof. Karl Lauterbach (@Karl_Lauterbach) October 18, 2023

Another motion, from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, argues that lawmakers should instead focus on cannabis, which it says «enjoys a good reputation among the population». The party argues that the Bundestag should abandon the legalization of adult-use and instead draft a new law to integrate medical cannabis into a national healthcare law, which would better address the «benefits and risks in an open manner» and could reduce costs for patients.

The bill will then be considered in committee. The Health Committee is scheduled to consider the proposal on November 6, when lawmakers are expected to take expert testimony on the proposal.

A second and third (final) reading are scheduled for November 16.