international

A German government has introduced legislation to legalize cannabis, allowing private cultivation and distribution through non-profit entities, but not widespread sales in shops.

The legislation also provides for a pilot program for a small number of licensed stores in some states to evaluate the effects a commercial recreational cannabis supply chain can have on public health, juvenile protection and the black market.

It will also legalize the acquisition and possession of up to 25 grams of recreational cannabis for personal consumption.

“The previous cannabis policy failed. Now we have to find new ways," said Health Minister Karl Lauterbach.

Today's announcement came after Berlin held talks with the European Commission over the key elements of the German government's cannabis policy.

The ministries that participated in the drafting of the legislation - Health, Justice and Agriculture - did not give any timetable for the implementation of the plan.

Many European countries, including Germany, have already legalized cannabis for limited medical purposes. Others have decriminalized its general use, but not legalized it.