A key component of the legalization model that is in line with current European Union agreements involves permitting regional adult-use cannabis commerce pilot trials. Locally-focused pilot trials are research-based and help national lawmakers and regulators gather data and information to be better suited when crafting national cannabis policies.

German lawmakers approved the historic CanG measure in April 2024, with the first provisions of the reform law relating to home cultivation, possession, and consumption by adults. Then, starting in July 2024, adults could apply to launch member-based cultivation associations.

Another major part of Germany’s CanG law called for the launch of regional pilot trials, often referred to as the ‘second pillar’ of the public policy change. Unfortunately, the approval of pilot trials has languished, with no pilot trial proposals receiving permission to launch despite trials already operating with no major issues reported in both the Netherlands and Switzerland.

Green Party MP Linda Heitmann recently participated in an interview with the German Hemp Association (DHV), in which she criticized the lack of movement on pilot trials, among other things.

“Heitmann stated that political momentum has significantly decreased compared to the previous legislative period and that the current federal government is divided on key reforms. She is particularly critical of the planned restrictions on online pharmacies and telemedicine prescriptions for medicinal cannabis.” the German Cannabis Business Association (BvCW) wrote in its recent newsletter (translated from German to English). “While she supports mandatory in-person initial consultations with a doctor, she rejects blanket bans on online sales, as this places patients under the unjustified suspicion of misuse.”

“Heitmann also expressed hope that municipal pilot projects for the regulated distribution of cannabis could be approved during this legislative period, despite initial rejections. She emphasized that decriminalization had already led to a reduction in the workload of the justice system and the police. She also called for more pragmatism in the practical implementation of the law, particularly regarding the distance regulations for cultivation associations.” BvCW also wrote.

“Furthermore, she advocated for legalizing the distribution of cannabis in private settings and increasing the permitted possession limits for personal use. As an opposition politician, she intends to urge the government to adopt evidence-based policies through parliamentary inquiries and expert opinions, for example, on the EU legal compliance of planned amendments.” BvCW concluded.

Below is an embedded video of the interview between Green Party MP Linda Heitmann and DHV’s CEO Georg Wurth, via DHV’s YouTube channel: