Germany's Cannabis Legalization Faces Potential Reversal After Election

Legal experts warn of significant compensation claims if the CDU/CSU coalition repeals the cannabis law enacted in 2024.

The CDU/CSU has pledged to repeal Germany's cannabis legalization law if it wins the upcoming federal election.
Legal experts, including the Neue Richtervereinigung (NRV), caution that reversing the law could trigger substantial compensation claims from Cannabis Social Clubs due to their seven-year licenses and high initial investments.
The current law, in effect since April 2024, permits adults to grow up to three cannabis plants and store up to 50 grams, while licensed clubs can cultivate cannabis collectively for non-commercial use.
Critics of the repeal argue that it would reintroduce burdens on the justice system by focusing resources on prosecuting minor cannabis offenses instead of organized crime.
Legal analysts highlight that any repeal would require sufficient transition periods for clubs and individuals to comply, and retroactive criminalization would not be legally permissible.