Cannabis legalization: border areas show no dramatic changes!

Cannabis legalization: border areas show no dramatic changes!

Vorarlberg, Österreich - The legalization of cannabis in Germany found its way into April 1, 2024, which means that adults are allowed to consume and grow cannabis under certain conditions. According to vorarlberg.orf.at , German citizens may grow up to three plants for their own needs and have up to 50 grams of dried cannabis. In public it is allowed to take up to 25 grams. Since July 1, 2024, cultivation associations have also been founded that spend cannabis to their members. However, the regulation only refers to people with residence in Germany, which means that Austrians have no legal opportunity to acquire cannabis without such residence registration.

The Austrian authorities are concerned about the potential effects of this change in the law. In the border regions to Germany in particular, they feared an increase in addictive substances and an increase in road users under the influence of cannabis. However, contrary to these fears, there were no significant abnormalities in the border areas until shortly before Christmas, as the Interior Ministry announced at the request of the ORF Vorarlberg. Although the legislative reform in Germany is still in the beginning, the police continue to carry out increased controls in the border regions, reports Federal Government.de .

changes in drug policy

The Federal Government initiated these changes in the law in response to the increasing consumer rates, especially among young people. In 2021, over four million Germans between the ages of 18 and 64 consumed cannabis, which illustrates the need for a reform that is intended to reduce many health risks from the black market. The new draft law not only includes the legalization of cannabis use, but also a clear focus on the protection of children and adolescents and the control of the quality of cannabis products.

In Germany, strict regulations apply: Possession for minors remains prohibited, while adults in controlled associations are allowed to cultivate and pass on cannabis. In addition to further reconnaissance campaigns, road traffic is also regulated to ensure security on the streets, with new limit values ​​for THC being determined in the blood. These comprehensive measures aim to contain the illegal drug market and to minimize the health risk for consumers.