The Second Pillar of Cannabis Legalization in Germany: Targeting Legal Cannabis Stores

Cannabis legalization in Germany took place on April 1st, when the country entered a new path in drug policy, legalizing the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis and the cultivation of up to three cannabis plants for personal use.

This historic change is the first step towards broad reform aimed not only at decriminalizing the use and cultivation of cannabis, but also at creating a regulated market for the sale of the substance. In this article, we look at the planned “second pillar” of this reform, which will open the doors to legal cannabis dispensaries as the ultimate goal of liberal drug policy.

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First pillar of cannabis legalization in Germany

Legalizing the possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal use is just the beginning. Cannabis clubs in Germany are to be launched in July, where members will be able to purchase cannabis, which is part of the first stage of the reform. This initiative is already changing the face of German drug policy, laying the foundations for further action.

Preparations for the second pillar

The second pillar of the reform, focusing on creating a regulated market for the sale of cannabis, is expected to bring further changes.

The Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) informs that work on this aspect is already underway, although no details have been provided yet. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, who is at the forefront of the government’s efforts to legalize cannabis, announces that detailed plans for commercial sales will be presented in the near future.

Expectations and challenges of the cannabis legalization in Germany

Kristine Lütke from the Free Democratic Party (FDP) emphasizes that the first phase of the reform is a breakthrough towards a liberal drug policy. At the same time, he emphasizes that it is necessary to quickly implement the second pillar, enabling the establishment of legal cannabis stores. However, this phase of reform is expected to face stronger resistance, especially from the Bundesrat, due to the greater visibility of adult-use cannabis shops and complex political issues.

“I hope that Karl Lauterbach will keep his promise and will also address the second pillar of cannabis legalization in due time by presenting an appropriate project.” wrote on X Kristine Lütke.

Prospects and future directions

Kirsten Kappert-Gonther from the Green Party draws attention to the importance of the second pillar in minimizing health risks for occasional users and creating alternatives to the black market. It emphasizes the need to quickly establish a legal framework for specialist shops, which could take place as early as this summer. It is equally important to involve the states and other entities in the consultation process.

Commercial legalization will probably be presented after its approval by the European Commission, which is another step towards fulfilling the reform framework announced in 2022. The German government has also expressed its willingness to obtain EU consent to ensure that the reform does not violate its international obligations.

The introduction of legal cannabis stores will have far-reaching consequences for German drug policy and society. It is expected to reduce black market activity, improve consumer safety by controlling the quality of products sold, and generate new revenues for the state through sales taxation.

Summary

The reform of cannabis legalization in Germany is a clear signal of a shift in the approach to drug policy, focusing on decriminalization and regulation instead of repression. The first pillar of the reform, which has already entered into force, and the planned second pillar, opening the way for legal cannabis shops, together create a comprehensive approach that has the potential to revolutionize the German and potentially European cannabis market. Further developments will certainly be followed with great interest both in Germany and around the world.

In light of these events, Poland should also consider steps towards legalizing and taxing cannabis. Such a step could bring a number of benefits, including:

Increasing state budget revenues : Taxing cannabis sales could generate significant revenues that could be spent on social purposes such as education or health care.

Improving public safety and reducing crime : Legalizing cannabis and state control of its distribution could reduce the profits associated with the black market and criminal activity.

Better control of product quality and safety : Legal markets enable better regulation of product quality, protecting consumers from harmful substances.

Decriminalization of users : Legalization would mean a shift in the approach to marijuana users, treating them as consumers instead of criminals, which would reduce the burden on the justice system.

Taking such steps would require a broad social discussion and analysis of the experiences of other countries that have decided to legalize cannabis. The latest CBOS survey indicates that 73.4% of Poles want to decriminalize cannabis. Nevertheless, looking at the example of Germany, Poland could consider using the potential of regulating this market, not only for fiscal purposes, but also in the context of improving public health and safety.

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(Featured image by Peter Dargatz via Pixabay)

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First published in Fakty Konopne. A third-party contributor translated and adapted the articles from the originals. In case of discrepancy, the originals will prevail.

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