SPD health expert Karl Lauterbach is in favor of legalizing cannabis in a possible coalition agreement between the SPD, the Greens and the FDP.
“For years I refused to legalize cannabis.
In the meantime, as a doctor, I have come to a different conclusion: more and more often, new types of heroin that can be smoked are added to illegally sold street cannabis.
This quickly drives cannabis users into a heroin addiction, ”Lauterbach told the Rheinische Post newspaper.
Legalizing cannabis would put a stop to the contaminated hash trade.
"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."
Also young liberals for release
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 newspaper.
“The prohibition, criminalization and stigmatization of cannabis has failed.” Only complete legalization would ensure the necessary quality standards and the protection of minors.
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 distribution” to adults, initially in model projects that are accompanied by prevention and counseling offers.
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.