Italy debates legalizing self-production of cannabis

The Italian Parliament has begun debating a bill that could legalize the home cultivation of cannabis.

The proposed law on cannabis self-cultivation provides for the possibility of growing four female plants for personal use, reduced penalties for minor offenses, and the elimination of administrative penalties for possession of cannabis for personal use.

In addition, there are plans to establish, at the beginning of each school year, a national day in elementary and secondary schools to raise awareness about the harmful effects of alcoholism, smoking, and the use of drugs and psychotropic substances.

« »The start of the debate on the law authorizing the home cultivation of four cannabis plants marks a historic day for our country, which has long been mired in outdated and failed repressive drug policies,” celebrated Mario Perantoni, chair of the Chamber of Deputies’ Justice Committee and a member of the M5E party.

«The law will save 600 million a year in spending on unnecessary processes, but above all, it will enable widespread therapeutic use and curb drug trafficking,» Perantoni said.

The The project has the support of the center-left and the M5E. Opposing them are the Lega, Brothers of Italy, and Forza Italia.

Supporters of the bill hope it can be passed by the Chamber of Deputies before the summer and then sent to the Senate in September when the legislative session resumes.