An Italian referendum project to legalize cannabis collects 20,000 signatures in one week

Almost two years after a failed referendum on cannabis legalization and psychedelic reform, Italian activists are rallying behind a new, more focused initiative.

The proposed legislation, entitled «The decriminalization of cannabis cultivation for personal use and in associated forms», aims to authorize the home cultivation of four cannabis plants, create Cannabis Social Clubs and eliminate penalties for consumers. As the campaign gains momentum, its supporters are optimistic that the issue can be brought back to the forefront of the Italian legislative agenda.

The momentum is there

In 2022, a referendum on cannabis legalization rejected by the Constitutional Court. Far from being discouraged, activists such as Marco Perduca, a former Italian senator, have banded together to take more targeted action. Mr. Perduca underlined the movement's determination by declaring: «Parliament will be forced to listen to us, but only when we have collected 50,000 signatures».

This new initiative, launched at the beginning of the month, has already garnered significant support, with over 20,000 certified signatures collected in its first week.

Antonella Soldo, coordinator of the’Associazione Meglio Legale, one of Italy's leading pro-cannabis lobby groups, was enthusiastic about the speed of the response.

She noted the broad support the initiative has received, declaring: «Our proposal has won substantial support from a wide range of individuals and communities who express the urgent need for change». Ms Soldo is convinced that the initiative, based on scientific evidence and inspired by models such as Germany, will resonate with the public.

Main provisions of the bill

The eight-page bill on legalization focuses on decriminalizing the cultivation of cannabis for personal use. Key provisions include the authorization to grow up to four cannabis plants for personal use and the creation of Cannabis Social Clubs. These clubs would be authorized to grow cannabis and distribute it exclusively to their members. In addition, the bill aims to authorize the possession of up to 30 grams of cannabis, while abolishing administrative penalties such as the withdrawal of driving licenses and passports.

The campaign insists that driving under the influence will remain punishable, reinforcing the responsible use of cannabis. The bill is based on models from other European countries, in particular Germany, where similar legislation has been introduced. under scrutiny by European institutions.

Antonella Soldo commented that «it may seem like an unattainable dream, but soon it will all become reality in Germany. That's why we've decided to launch a popular initiative bill to legalize domestic cannabis cultivation right now!»

The authors of the proposal believe that aligning themselves with other European countries adds credibility to their cause and provides a roadmap for effective cannabis reform.

The campaign must now collect the 50,000 signatures required within six months to force Parliament to consider the issue. With over 20,000 signatures collected in the first week, the bar isn't too high!