After the partial legalization of cannabis in Germany, the state of Bavaria has decided to ban smoking at public festivals and beer gardens. The goal is to limit consumption in public areas. Additionally, North Rhine-Westphalia plans to implement a ban on cannabis use for police officers. Despite opposition, the nationwide partial legalization of cannabis on April 1 could not be prevented in Bavaria.
The Bavarian cabinet has officially banned smoking at public festivals, especially at the famous Oktoberfest, as well as in beer gardens and the Englischer Garten in Munich. The aim is to create clear and enforceable rules for both organizers and law enforcement. According to Federal cannabis law, smoking in the presence of minors is prohibited, effectively banning smoking at public festivals where children and teenagers are present. Operators of public festivals had raised concerns about a regulatory gap.
Furthermore, the Bavarian government plans to include cannabis products in the existing legal smoking ban, which applies to indoor areas of public buildings, restaurants, and cultural and recreational facilities. Smoking will also be prohibited in designated smoking rooms and areas, as well as outdoor areas of restaurants, cafes, and beer gardens. This ban extends to the burning, heating, and vaporizing of cannabis products to ensure compliance. These measures aim to provide legal clarity for restaurant and beer garden owners, as the regulations in the Federal law are deemed inadequate and impractical.
In addition to the restrictions in Bavaria, the state of North Rhine-Westphalia also plans to ban cannabis use for police officers. Interior Minister Herbert Reul stated that it is unacceptable for police officers to report to duty while under the influence of drugs, as they are expected to be able to perform their duties effectively and responsibly. Therefore, the consumption of cannabis will be prohibited for police officers to ensure legal compliance and ensure that officers are fit for duty.
The decision to ban cannabis use in public areas and for specific groups such as police officers reflects a broader trend of tightening regulations around the consumption of cannabis in Germany. These measures aim to protect public health and safety, particularly in areas where children and teenagers are present. By implementing clear rules and prohibitions, the government seeks to address concerns raised by various stakeholders and ensure adherence to legal requirements in the context of changing cannabis legislation at the federal level.
