Reinhardt, in a statement to the German press, stated that with the release of cannabis, a drug that has proven to be addictive and that can cause harm, especially in young people, is tried to be shown as safe.
Pointing out that the Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach explained that the development process of the brain is not completed until the age of 25 and that cannabis consumption may have a negative effect in this process, Reinhardt noted that these damages are permanent and can continue for life.
“This is highly irresponsible,” Reinhardt said, noting that, despite the serious health risks, Minister Lauterbach wanted to legally gain access to cannabis from the age of 18.
Reinhardt stated that the limitations in the draft law cannot be effectively controlled and warned, “Unrealistic regulations do not increase the protection of young people, they cause the state to lose control.”
Reinhardt said that with the draft law approved by the Council of Ministers, the arguments of medical science and the experience of investigative authorities were ignored and negligent, and that a drug policy aimed at preventing addiction was needed.
Thuringia State Interior Minister Georg Maier also stated that the bill is problematic and said, “I am not convinced that it will prevent the black market.”
Emphasizing that he has doubts about reaching the effect targeted by the law, Maier expressed his concern that easy access to cannabis will cause more people to use drugs.
Maier stated that he does not see cannabis as a harmless substance.
The bill must also pass the Bundestag.
In Germany, the Council of Ministers approved the draft law prepared by the Ministry of Health on the limited legalization of cannabis use yesterday.
According to the bill, cannabis will be removed from the list of drugs. Adults will be allowed to hold up to 25 grams of cannabis and grow 3 plants for personal consumption. So-called “cannabis social clubs”, which will have a maximum of 500 members, will be able to grow cannabis and supply cannabis to their members. A member will be able to purchase a maximum of 50 grams of cannabis per month from this association.
Marijuana use will not be allowed within 200 meters of schools, kindergartens, playgrounds and gyms. Cannabis consumption will also be prohibited by those under the age of 18.
The bill, which is planned to become law by the end of the year, must also be approved by the Bundestag.