How and why Italy's cannabis laws could soon change

By The Local

In July, Italy's parliament will begin debating historic changes to cannabis laws that could see the drug legalized.

On July 25th, the draft legislation will be presented in Italy's lower house for the first time. The following day, politicians will begin voting on whether or not to send the bill through to the upper house for final approval.

If new laws are passed, how will things change?

Obviously, the proposals being debated will probably undergo some amendments if they are to make it into law. However, in their current form proposals would allow:

Possession: Citizens will be able to hold up to 15 grams of herb at home and take up to five grams with them when they go out and about.

Cannabis growth: People will be free to cultivate a maximum of five plants at home but will be forbidden from selling what they grow.

Growers will be allowed to join together to form social clubs of no more than 50 members, where they can swap and share their produce. They will, however, be forbidden from selling the fruit of their labour.

Sale: Cannabis will be on sale in stores licensed by a state monopoly. Five percent of all revenue from sales will go towards fighting the war on illegal drugs in Italy.

Restrictions: While the drug will be readily available, it will be forbidden to smoke it in public places, including parks. Driving while high will also be illegal, as will exporting the drug.

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Thumbnail: Flickr CC Patrick Harris