Planned Cannabis Pilot Project in Wiesbaden Rejected - Germany blocks Wiesbaden's pharmacy-based cannabis distribution study
A planned research project in Wiesbaden to explore legal cannabis distribution through pharmacies has been blocked by federal authorities. The city's health commissioner, Milena Löbcke, confirmed the rejection, despite Germany legalising recreational cannabis for adults in April 2024. The move follows a similar decision last year against a Frankfurt pilot scheme.
Wiesbaden's proposal aimed to test regulated cannabis sales in pharmacies, arguing that legalisation must include safe access points. Löbcke stressed the importance of such research for responsible distribution. However, the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) ruled that the Cannabis Act does not allow for regionally or time-limited pilot projects.
The BLE spokesperson clarified that separate legislation would be needed to authorise such schemes. This decision mirrors last year's rejection of Frankfurt's plan to trial cannabis sales in specialised shops. Despite the setback, Wiesbaden officials are now considering legal action to push the project forward.
The rejection leaves Wiesbaden's research plans on hold for now. Without changes to federal law, similar local initiatives will face the same hurdles. The city's potential legal challenge could test whether such projects can proceed under current regulations.
