READY. STEADY. GO for the decriminalization of cannabis on 1 April. It was a rollercoaster ride of green emotions that culminated on Friday, March 22: The legalization of cannabis in Germany. Or rather: balancing on the fine line between yes and no, because until then everything seemed open as to whether the hemp plant would finally be brought out of the shadows of its existence and bring about a paradigm shift in drug policy. But is the ping-pong game with the CanG really over now?
The German Federal Council met on Friday, March 22, to make its decision on the CanG as set out in the coalition agreement of the governing parties. Although the law did not require the approval of the Bundesrat, the state chambers and the Bundestag were able to convene the Mediation Committee. And after the law had stumbled again in recent weeks, this seemed more than likely at times.
Before the big decision day, the CDU and CSU formed a strong bulwark against the Bundestag’s resolutions. In the state chamber, they won over state politicians and health ministers from the SPD. In addition, three Federal Council ministries recommended that the meditation committee be convened, as the content of the CanG is a mess on paper. However, in the decisive vote, there was no majority in favor of convening the Mediation Committee. This clears the way for the law to enter into force without delays caused by protracted negotiations between the federal and state governments.
And just like that, in addition to 420, the marijuana holiday on April 20, Germany will have another day dedicated entirely to joints in just the same month. Or could something still “get in the way” of the green surprise in the Easter nest? For example, the Union?
CAN THE CANNABIS LAW STILL BE STOPPED?
Their criticism has been a faithful companion on the road to legalization. But they are not the only ones who have enormous reservations about the law in its current form, or the short time until it comes into force. And so a loud echo of the demand for a postponement resounded from all the justice and interior ministers of the federal states.
As a consequence of the massive concerns, the CDU is therefore calling for Federal President Walter Steinmeier to stop the law. The entry into force of the reform must still receive his blessing, and one of his duties is to ensure that a law complies with the provisions of federal law. And that is precisely what the CDU believes is not the case. In the history of the Federal Republic of Germany, there have only ever been exactly eight cases in which the head of state has refused to sign a law. So the eyes of the nation are now on Steinmeier as he puts the law through its paces to ensure that it meets constitutional requirements. And if it is, then marijuana is legal, with conditions.
WHAT IS ALLOWED WITH THE LEGALIZATION OF CANNABIS IN GERMANY
Probably the most concise and most relevant points of legalization for marijuana users:
25 grams for personal use: From the age of 18, it is permitted to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal use – including in public spaces at a distance of at least 100m from schools, kindergartens, etc.
50 grams in the private home: Consumers may store up to 50 grams of dried cannabis within their own four walls.
Maximum of three plants per home: A green paradise within your own four walls is permitted as long as the harvest is only intended for personal consumption and not for resale. Seeds, plants and harvested flowers must be kept safe from theft and curious children.
However, questions upon questions will probably arise, especially in the coming weeks, as the exact implementation will somehow remain a well-kept secret. One of them:
WHERE CAN I BUY CANNABIS SEEDS AND CANNABIS FLOWERS?
Why keep it simple when it can be done in a funny way? Online stores and mail order remain prohibited in Germany. However, seeds may be ordered in other EU countries and shipped to Germany! From July, both cuttings and cannabis flowers are to be made available through growers’ associations. But step by step, puff by puff.
THE FUTURE IS NOW – LET’S GROW INTO IT
The decriminalization of Cannabis is finally a step towards a sensible drug policy. For all those who are aware of the positive aspects of cannabis, it represents a triumph for personal freedom and the right to self-determination. It was simply and easily time to break taboos and exploit the potential of one of the world’s oldest medicinal plants. And so there it is, the reason to celebrate… albeit with some surprise.
Because the law as it stands now has legalized cannabis and made CBD subject to an intoxication clause. This makes Germany the only country in the world to impute intoxication to the product of the hemp plant, which, with its low THC content, excludes intoxication.
The CanG has its rough edges and is certainly not the law as it is written in the picture book, but for this very moment it is a clear sign from Germany for a policy in the interests of the middle of society, which has long since opted for the green miracle. For us, it’s “Go bigger in green as we know it”… And we at Tom Hemp’s will passionately contribute to promoting the responsible use of cannabis and remain committed to our mission of providing access to products for a healthy lifestyle. Pass by in our shop to see how we pimped us for the new era in Germany.
LEGALIZE NOW IS LEGALIZED NOW.
