In recent cannabis news, significant developments are occurring both in Germany and New York State.
In a recent story by 420 Intel, In Germany, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is pushing for the legalization of cannabis with a bill expected to pass the Bundestag in February. The proposed Cannabis Act aims to legalize cannabis by April 2024.
According to the bill, adults will be allowed to grow and possess limited amounts of cannabis starting from April, with collective cultivation clubs being permitted from July. The move towards legalization is seen as a major step in controlling the distribution of cannabis and drying up the black market, despite facing opposition within Germany’s governing coalition and some states.
We feel, Germany’s move towards legalizing cannabis, led by Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, represents a significant shift in drug policy in one of Europe’s largest countries. The proposed Cannabis Act, expected to be passed by the Bundestag and come into effect in April 2024, reflects a growing recognition of the failures of prohibitionist policies.
Legalization could bring multiple benefits, such as reducing the harms associated with unregulated black markets and potentially offering safer, controlled access to cannabis. However, the opposition within the governing coalition and some federal states, especially Bavaria, highlights the complex political landscape surrounding cannabis legalization.
Germany’s approach, focusing on controlled distribution with special protection for minors, sets an example of a cautious yet progressive move towards rethinking cannabis policy.
The world famous High Times Magazine is writing, In New York, the Cannabis Control Board is set to vote on proposed rules for home marijuana cultivation. If approved, New Yorkers will be allowed to grow up to 12 cannabis plants at home, including six immature plants and six mature plants. These rules also stipulate that plants must be grown in a secure spot, out of public view, and inaccessible to those under 21.
Notably, property owners and co-op boards will not be able to prohibit the possession or home cultivation of cannabis, although they may implement odor mitigation measures.
However, residents of buildings operated by the New York City Housing Authority and other federally subsidized housing will not be permitted to grow cannabis at home due to federal marijuana prohibition. The new rules are seen as a positive development, especially for those frustrated with the slow rollout of licensed dispensaries in the state.
Things might be impending vote by New York State’s Cannabis Control Board on home cultivation rules marks a pivotal moment in the state’s cannabis policy. Allowing individuals to grow up to 12 cannabis plants at home could democratize access to cannabis, especially for those who find it challenging to access licensed dispensaries.
This policy parallels the home-brewing allowances in the alcohol industry, providing a personal, non-commercial alternative to purchasing from retail producers. However, the exclusion of residents in federally subsidized housing underscores the ongoing conflict between state and federal laws on cannabis.
These rules, if approved, not only empower cannabis enthusiasts but also signal a progressive step towards a more inclusive and practical cannabis policy, acknowledging both the rights of individuals and the need for responsible regulation.