Germany’s blueprint for marijuana reform has been leaked – here’s what it looks like

Germany is finally making headway with legal marijuana. A blueprint of the reform was leaked by the RND newspaper group and translated by Politico, stating that marijuana will be decriminalized, allowing its purchase, possession and cultivation. Any advertising for cannabis would be prohibited.

Under the German plan, adults can buy up to 20 grams of marijuana sold in stores. Chances are they’re also sold in pharmacies and specialty stores like coffee houses.

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Some of the restrictions include the fact that marijuana will have a 15% THC limit. Young adults between the ages of 18 and 21 can buy marijuana with a 10% THC limit, which seems like a smart, albeit conservative, way to avoid some of the harshest criticisms of cannabis in the world.

The plan also clarifies that cannabis sold in Germany must be produced domestically, circumventing international law and avoiding conflict.

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While many are celebrating Germany’s decision, several German politicians believe the plan is too restrictive. Kristine Lütke, the FDP’s drug policy spokeswoman, said some of the restrictions are driving people to the black market.

“A disaster for youth, health & consumer protection,” she tweeted.

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Germany’s decision to legalize marijuana has been long-awaited, and the government has fulfilled a promise made a year ago. It is also a decision analyzed by experts and represents a significant step for marijuana in the European Union and the world. Germany is the largest economy in the EU and a crucial factor in how different countries will react.

Earlier this year, The Guardian spoke to several experts offering their take on why legal marijuana was a game changer in Germany.

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“There will certainly be a domino effect,” said Justin Haucap, director of the Düsseldorf Institute for Competition Economics. “European countries that have a much bigger problem with illegal cannabis use, like France, are watching very closely what Germany is doing at the moment.”