Sat Feb 15 04:54:32 UTC 2025: ## Switzerland Moves to Legalize Recreational Cannabis
**Bern, Switzerland** – Switzerland is poised to legalize recreational cannabis after a parliamentary commission voted in favor of a draft law that would allow for regulated sale and consumption. The proposal, passed 14-9 with two abstentions by the lower house’s health commission, would grant adults strictly controlled access to cannabis for non-medical purposes.
Currently, cannabis is legal in Switzerland only for medicinal use or for non-medical use with THC levels below 1%. However, the commission cited a 2022 survey showing 4% of 15-64 year olds had consumed cannabis illegally in the preceding month, highlighting the need for a change in approach. They argued that the current prohibition is ineffective and contributes to the substantial illegal cannabis market.
The proposed law would allow individuals over 18 to cultivate up to three plants for personal use, purchase cannabis from state-run dispensaries, and possess it legally. Commercial production would be permitted but strictly regulated, with neutral packaging and clear health warnings. Crucially, the sale of cannabis would be a state monopoly, with profits dedicated to prevention, harm reduction, and addiction treatment programs. Penalties for illegal cannabis trade would be increased, and driving under the influence would remain strictly prohibited.
The Swiss Hemp Interest Group welcomed the decision as historic, while the Swiss People’s Party, the country’s largest party, voiced strong opposition, vowing to continue fighting the proposal.
The proposal marks the beginning of a lengthy process. The draft law must pass both houses of parliament and could face a popular vote under Switzerland’s direct democracy system before becoming law. The commission emphasized that the legislation aims to regulate cannabis, not encourage its consumption.
First Piper 