The resolution comes after prolonged discussions and revisions that set the stage for a crucial vote on the text in the last week of February, with entry into force scheduled for April.
The proposed regulations are hailed as a milestone in modern drug policy, placing the emphasis on prevention, improved health and the protection of children and young people.
The legalization initiative, launched last year by Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, has undergone considerable adjustments to meet the concerns of the various political parties, particularly the SPD: easing restrictions, increasing home possession limits or eliminating prison sentences for possession of slightly more than the authorized limit.
Mr. Lauterbach has consistently stressed the urgent need to combat the black market, decriminalize cannabis and increase protection for minors, calling the initiative a "new beginning" for drug policy in Germany.
The proposed legislation already provided for a study of youth-related trends following legalization, with a report due four years after the law came into force. The recent agreement goes further, requiring an evaluation of the reform's impact on the illicit market.
Kristine Lütke, of the Free Democratic Party, declared: "We are paving the way for a totally different approach to cannabis and recognition of the realities of life".
Lawmakers have strategically staggered the implementation of the reform. Possession and cultivation at home should become legal for adults in April, followed by the opening of Cannabis Clubs that can distribute cannabis to their members as early as July.
A second, complementary phase is currently being drawn up, and should enable pilot programs for the supervised sale of cannabis in Germany's cities. This part should be revealed once it has been submitted to the European Commission for examination.
The final reading of the bill in the Bundestag will mark an important step towards the Bundesrat, where the representatives of the German states will vote. It should be noted that attempts to block the reform proposed by members of the Bundesrat in September failed.
Germany's adoption of full cannabis legalization marks a paradigm shift in drug policy, with a more nuanced, preventive and health-focused approach that could be a landmark in Europe.
Source : En Allemagne, un accord trouvé sur le texte de légalisation du cannabis, le vote prévu fin février : https://www.newsweed.fr/allemagne-legalisation-cannabis-vote-fevrier/
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