Lindner defends hashish regulation as “responsible” | EUROtoday

FDP chief Christian Lindner has described appeals from the Union to Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to refuse to signal the hashish regulation as unfounded. “I see no argument for this,” mentioned the Federal Finance Minister on Sunday within the ARD program “Report from Berlin”. The regulation is “responsible” as a result of it goals on the managed distribution of hashish. This is healthier “than referring people to the black market”.

Lindner dismissed fears that the partial legalization of hashish might result in chaotic situations: “It does not lead to chaos. (…) At least for me, the focus is not on a right to intoxication.” Rather, the “unsatisfactory situation” ought to be overcome, the place hundreds of thousands of individuals eat hashish on the black market with none well being data being supplied.

The Federal Council allowed the regulation to cross on Friday regardless of widespread criticism; a majority was not obtained to refer the matter to the mediation committee. Instead, a number of federal states abstained. Once signed by the Federal President, the regulation might come into power from April 1st. The Union has requested Steinmeier to not signal the regulation.

It stipulates that the possession of 25 grams of dried hashish in public areas stays unpunished. Cultivation and distribution ought to initially be made attainable by way of cultivation associations. When rising at house, as much as 50 grams and three vegetation are allowed.