Drugs
Lauterbach on cannabis: “It will be legal, but there are problems”
A bill introduced by the Federal Cabinet proposes to remove cannabis from the list of prohibited substances in the Narcotics Act. photo
© Annette Riedl/dpa
The traffic light coalition wants to release cannabis in a controlled manner – but not to minors. The Minister of Health is relying on younger people to have broader knowledge about the dangers of the drug.
Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is continuing with the planned controlled release of Cannabis also provides broader knowledge of the dangers, especially for younger people. On the occasion of legalization, it should be made clear: “It will be legal, but there are problems,” said the SPD politician at a ministry discussion event in Berlin.
Until now, many parents did not know how harmful consumption was. For children and young people it remains completely illegal and will continue to be prosecuted. Young adults should be made aware of increased risks. It should become safer for consumers – for example with regard to crime when shopping and when it comes to concentrations and admixtures.
A bill introduced by the Federal Cabinet proposes to remove cannabis from the list of prohibited substances in the Narcotics Act. Adults should be allowed to possess 25 grams. A maximum of three plants should be allowed to be grown privately. In cannabis clubs, club members should be allowed to grow the drug together and sell it to each other – a maximum of 50 grams per member per month. For 18 to 21 year olds, up to 30 grams per month can be consumed with a maximum content of ten percent of the substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which has the intoxicating effect.
Teachers’ association president expresses doubts about plans
The President of the German Teachers’ Association, Stefan Düll, criticized the plans during the discussion. He has very serious doubts that the situation will be improved through release and prevention. The question also arises as to who should monitor the planned protective distances of 200 meters around schools, for example.
Lauterbach emphasized: “The problem won’t go away on its own.” He defended the guidelines that prevent cannabis from becoming a product like any other. In a “corridor of reason” one cannot allow the cultivation of dozens of plants in apartments. The minister announced that the law would also provide an amnesty for those who had done something that would be permitted in the future. The first reading of the law is scheduled for next week. Consumption should then be permitted over the next year.