Lauterbach advocates legalization of cannabis after a change of heart

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Thumbs up for legalization: SPD health expert Karl Lauterbach

Photo: Christoph Hardt / imago images / Future Image

With the price of petrol, the minimum wage and the speed limit, the traffic light explorers have to discuss many construction sites before a possible coalition agreement could be signed. On drug policy, however, an agreement could be reached quickly: FDP and the Greens are in favor of legalizing cannabis. Now the SPD health expert Karl Lauterbach has spoken out in favor of stipulating this in a possible coalition agreement between the SPD, the Greens and the FDP.

In an interview with the "Rheinische Post" he advocated allowing controlled distribution to adults in order to put a stop to the trafficking of cannabis mixed with heroin. “For years I refused to legalize cannabis. In the meantime, as a doctor, I have come to a different conclusion, ”said Lauterbach. »More and more often, the illegally sold street cannabis is being mixed with a new type of heroin that can be smoked. This quickly drives cannabis users into a heroin addiction. "This phenomenon is new and is changing the situation.

With a legalization of cannabis, the trade in contaminated hashish could be stopped, said the SPD politician.

"I am therefore in favor of us formulating a passage on the legal and controlled distribution of cannabis to adults in a possible coalition agreement with the Greens and the FDP."

FDP wants major reform of drug policy

The FDP and the Greens are in favor of legalizing cannabis and "selling it in licensed specialist shops".

The SPD, on the other hand, advocates a “regulated levy” to adults, initially in model projects that are accompanied by prevention and counseling offers.

The young FDP pleaded for an even more far-reaching reform.

"Instead of the lowest common denominator, we now need major reforms that go far beyond the legalization of cannabis," said the head of the Young Liberals, Jens Teutrine, of the "Rheinische Post".

"The prohibition, criminalization and stigmatization of cannabis has failed." Only complete legalization would ensure the necessary quality standards and the protection of minors.

Police union representatives warn against legalization.

Among other things, they argue that cannabis is an often trivialized drug that can lead to significant health problems and social conflicts, especially among young people.

mrc / dpa