Germany and the Czech Republic adopt new marijuana laws starting April

In Germany and the Czech Republic, a long-awaited change for certain citizens is finally coming into effect. Beginning April 1st, the controlled legalization of marijuana will be implemented in Germany. This new regulation allows citizens to possess up to approximately 0.88 ounces of the substance.

Under this new law, adults are permitted to carry up to around 0.88 ounces of marijuana for personal use. At home, individuals will be able to cultivate up to three cannabis plants and purchase up to about 1.76 ounces of marijuana each month. Meanwhile, young adults, those aged between 18-21, can buy up to about 1.06 ounces per month.

This fulfills one of the key promises made by the current ruling coalition. They had pledged back in 2021 to legalize marijuana within the country.

Nonetheless, there was an ongoing debate about the extent of the law's liberalization for several months. The first proposal was revealed in mid-last year. By February 2024, the Bundestag had endorsed the law's final version.

The Czech Republic, for instance, decriminalized possession earlier. As reported in July 2023, Prague initially proposed that cannabis be sold exclusively in licensed specialty stores.

The licensing fee for a small shop was set to start at approximately $2,222, with pharmacies being the only entities exempt from this charge. Moreover, each purchasing marijuana for personal use would be required to register in a special registry.

Additionally, the advertisement of cannabis products, along with the display of their images and illustrations, would be forbidden.