New German limit for cannabis while driving likely to come into force in summer
According to the Federal Ministry of Transport, the upcoming limit for the cannabis substance THC at the wheel is to be discussed in the Bundesrat on July 5.
Traffic control
(Image: h/A Archiv)
- dpa
The Bundesrat is expected to discuss the announced limit for the cannabis substance THC at the wheel on July 5, said a spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Transport in Berlin. The law passed by the Bundestag last week does not require approval in the state chamber. It will come into force after promulgation, said the spokesperson. The law creates legal clarity for everyone. This is a significant contribution to road safety.
Stricter directive until entry into force
As with the per mille limit for alcohol, a limit will also apply to cannabis in the future, above which drivers will face sanctions. This relates to the intoxicating substance THC. Anyone driving with 3.5 nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood or more risks a fine of 500 euros and a one-month driving ban. The threshold follows the recommendations of an expert commission. There are stricter rules for novice drivers and mixed consumption of cannabis and alcohol.
Until the limit value comes into force, the previous stricter line will continue to apply for the time being, with penalties being imposed from a detection level of one nanogram.
(mho)