What's happening?

It was once used to make clothes and paper, and even as a cure for a disease called choleraA dangerous infection, still present in some parts of the world that is usually caught from drinking unclean water.. But in many countries today, people who are caught with cannabisA tall plant. When parts of it are smoked or eaten, it can have a mind-altering effect. in their pockets are arrested and even sent to prison.

Now, GermanyOne of Europe's largest countries, with a popultion of nearly 86 million. is set to make a big change. The country's leaders plan to make cannabis legalSomething that is legal is allowed by the law. . It will be one of the biggest countries in the world to change its laws on cannabis.

Under the new plans, people could buy up to 50g of cannabis per month in "cannabis clubs". Adults could grow up to three cannabis plants at home.

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Some think this is a good idea. They say that rather than making drugs illegal, countries should help support people who might become addictedUnable to stop doing something. . They could collect taxesThere are three main ways for governments to obtain money: print it, borrow it or collect taxes. from the sale of cannabis, and make sure that any cannabis being sold is as safe as possible.

And many believe that adults should be allowed to have a choice on cannabis, much like people can choose whether or not to smoke or drink alcohol.

But others are worried by the plans. Some think making cannabis legal will mean that more people start using it. And there is still a lot we do not know about cannabis, and whether or not it is really safe in the long term. Some scientists think it can cause psychosis, a serious mental health condition.

Yes! Banning cannabis does not stop people from using it. It is better to make it legal, and make sure that people use it safely.

No! There is still so much we do not know about cannabis. It would not be responsible to make it legal.