Cannabis - Ministry of Consumer Protection responsible for cannabis associations
In Saarland, the Consumer Protection Ministry is responsible for granting permits for Cannabis growing cooperatives. It also oversees the monitoring of these cooperatives and corresponding regulatory procedures, the Saarbrucken Health Ministry announced. As of today, registered associations can submit applications for permission to collectively cultivate Cannabis.
According to the Cannabis Act, possession and home cultivation of limited quantities of Cannabis for adults has been legally permitted since April 1st. The regulations for home cultivation in growing cooperatives have been in effect since July 1st. In growing cooperatives, Cannabis can be grown collectively by members for personal consumption and distributed among members.
One approved cooperative per 6,000 inhabitants
The Saarland state government has decided to allow only one cooperative per 6,000 inhabitants in a municipal association, it was stated. The government recently passed a regulation to implement the Cannabis Act. In the Saarland registration portal for associations, there are currently four registered associations that grow Cannabis under their names.
A cooperative may distribute Cannabis to a maximum of 500 members to cover their needs. A maximum of 25 grams of Cannabis per day and 50 grams per month per member is allowed. Adolescents between the ages of 18 and 21 may possess a maximum of 30 grams of Cannabis per month, with a THC content not exceeding ten percent.
The BMG, the federal agency responsible for drug-related matters in Germany, has expressed interest in observing Saarland's implementation of the Cannabis Act. This involves examining the role of authorities in overseeing the collective cultivation of Cannabis by registered associations, as outlined by the Saarbrucken Health Ministry.
The growers' association in Saarland strongly advocates for consumer protection measures, ensuring that all Cannabis produced in cooperatives meets the necessary quality and safety standards. Society as a whole is encouraged to engage in a responsible and informed discourse about the use of Cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes.
The Ministry of Consumer Protection in Saarland has issued a warning to unauthorized individuals attempting to sell Cannabis, emphasizing the need to comply with the regulations set forth in the Cannabis Act. Any instances of illegal drug sales will be met with appropriate law enforcement action.
The Saarland government's decision to restrict the number of cooperatives to one per 6,000 inhabitants has sparked heated debate within the community, with some advocating for more accessibility and others supporting the stricter approach.
Despite the recent legal changes, it is essential for individuals to remain informed about the evolving legislation surrounding Cannabis use, as the BMG and other authorities continue to monitor and adjust policies as needed.
