Sanity Group, a Berlin-based representative group that has set itself the goal of improving people’s quality of life through the use of cannabinoids, has said that Germany‘s partial legalisation of cannabis for personal use is a valuable first step, but more needs to be done to tackle the black market and encourage youth protection.
The first pillar of the Cannabis Act (CanG) came into effect on 1 April, which permits the possession of up to 50 grams of cannabis for personal consumption in private spaces, while the maximum limit for public spaces is 25 grams. In addition, home cultivation of up to three plants is also permitted under the legislation.
‘The real work begins’
However, the steps are not enough to curb the illegal cannabis market, Finn Hänsel, Sanity Group‘s founder and CEO, said. “The foundation stone for decriminalisation and destigmatisation of consumers, but above all for better patient care with medicinal cannabis, was laid today,” he noted. “Now the real work begins.”
Hänsel regards the pilot projects outlined in a planned second pillar of the legal proposal for the controlled distribution of cannabis in licensed specialist shops as crucial.
He noted that the anticipated small number of cannabis clubs and the option to cultivate personal cannabis plants will be insufficient to combat the illicit cannabis market, noting that the extensive bureaucratic procedures for setting up, licensing, and running a cannabis club pose challenges to ensuring widespread access.
“The substantial reduction of the black market and the associated strengthening of youth protection can only be adequately guaranteed with Pillar 2, which is why we are calling for it to be implemented soon,” he said. “Valuable time is being lost.”
According to Sanity Group, Pillar 2 facilitates the realisation of the economic benefits associated with the regulated distribution of cannabis for recreational use, which are not fully realised in Pillar 1.
“This includes the creation of jobs with employees subject to social insurance contributions, as well as economic income from wage tax and social insurance,” said Hänsel.
Cannabis consumption in Germany
According to a recent Berliner Morgenpost editorial, close to 9% of all adults aged 18 to 64 consume cannabis in Germany.
“Admittedly, the scenario sounds as if Germany is a nation of stoners,” columnist Brigitta Stauber wrote. “In reality, however, the smoke from joints hangs in the air on practically every corner in the cities. It wafts over city parks and at the edge of playgrounds, it hangs firmly at traffic lights and marks the path of walkers.
“Keeping young people away from cannabis for as long as possible should be the top priority now that it is legal. It is questionable whether the law is sufficient to achieve this.”
Road safety
Elsewhere, Germany’s ACE Auto Club Europe, the Federal Association of Driving Instructors, the German Road Safety Association and the TÜV Association are working together to increase road safety as part of the legalisation process.
The associations are joining forces to call for an absolute ban on cannabis, similar to the ban on alcohol behind the wheel, for novice drivers. The federal government is also being called upon to provide accompanying educational work to make the dangers of cannabis consumption and active participation in traffic clear.
“A clear commitment to a zero-tolerance limit is necessary, at least for novice drivers,” commented Richard Goebelt, member of the management board of the TÜV Association. “The alcohol ban for novice drivers introduced in 2007 has proven successful and should be seen as a blueprint for cannabis.”
