Germany's Marijuana Legalization Plan Under Attack Over Law Enforcement Concerns

Members of the ruling Social Democrat Party (SPD) in Germany disagree over a proposed measure to legalize recreational marijuana use, writes Euractiv, with high-ranking members opposing the bill and others continuing to support it.

On Wednesday, SPD group manager Katja Mast said cannabis will pass the Bundestag "in the near future." However, several hours later, the party's spokesman on law enforcement, Sebastian Fiedler questioned the statement. "Naturally, talks are being held on the cannabis law. I still hope they will lead to the realization that this law must not be passed under any circumstances."

Feidler said he’s not the only politician against the plan to legalize recreational marijuana. "I know a large number of colleagues in my parliamentary group who share this view."

See Also: This European Country Is Expected To Have Millions Of Medical Marijuana Patients, Say Experts

Law Enforcement Concerns

A recently published report by the conference of German interior ministers prepared by the Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt, BKA) pointed out several flaws in the regulations connected to the technical implementations of the law, writes Forbes. 

Interior ministers claim that the measure poorly considers the projected impacts of cannabis legalization on law enforcement, regulatory authorities and public safety. The major concern they point out is a potential burden on law enforcement in the form of unclear regulations, including higher costs and additional police tasks. 

“Overall, it can be stated that the law enforcement and regulatory authorities of the federal states will be faced with additional tasks and expenses in the form of personnel and material costs, which cannot be quantified in detail at the present time,” the report reads. 

Meanwhile, the Greens and FDP are continuing to push for reform. Kristin Lütke, the FDP health consultant and spokesperson for addiction and drug policy tweeted that those who oppose the measure have had enough over the past year to voice their concerns. 

Diese irritierende Vielstimmigkeit innerhalb der SPD kann ich nicht nachvollziehen. Alle hatten lange genug Zeit, um Bedenken zu äußern. Ein guter und geeinter Entwurf liegt längst vor.

Änderungsbedarf sehe ich nicht mehr. Wir sollten das #CanG schnellstmöglich verabschieden. https://t.co/7cyVtyr0CB

— Kristine Lütke MdB (@kristine_lutke) January 15, 2024

Related Links: 

Euro Weed: Germany’s Medical Marijuana Associations Seek Easier Access, Ukraine To Tax Hemp & More

Cannabis Legalization Debate In Germany’s Bundestag Heats Up With Pro And Con Arguments 

Photo Via El Planteo.