While personal use of cannabis has been decriminalized in Italy, it is still illegal to use, possess, cultivate, transport and sell. Medical use of cannabis, however, is legal with a valid prescription.
Current Legislation
Currently, Italian law classifies cannabis as a Schedule II drug and the possession, cultivation, transporting and selling of it is illegal. Personal use, however, has been decriminalized. If a person is caught in possession of up to 1.5 grams of cannabis leaf or 0.5 grams of resin (considered a “daily dose”), it is a misdemeanor and a warning or administrative penalty (identity document suspension) may result. Repeat offenses and possession of larger amounts is penalized on a progressive scale. Cultivation and selling of cannabis is more strictly punished and the penalty can include two to six years of imprisonment and a fine of €75,000.
Italy, however, is currently considering legalization. In July 2015, the Intergrupo Parlamentare Cannabis Legale agreed upon a drafted text of regulations allowing for the growth, production and sale of recreational marijuana.
The cultivation of industrial hemp is legal in Italy, as long as farmers have possession of a valid license. Purchasing, using and consuming hemp oil is also legal.
Medical Marijuana Laws
Since January 2013, medical use of cannabis is legal in Italy. Medical cannabis must be imported from the Netherlands and sold through authorized pharmacies to patients with a valid prescription. To combat the expensive price of imported legal cannabis, the Italian government revealed in 2014 that the nation’s Army would cultivate cannabis to distribute to pharmacies across the country.
References:
Italy takes step toward legalizing pot. (2015, July 15). Politico. Retrieved from http://www.politico.eu/article/italy-legalizing-pot-us/.
Italy: Army unveils ‘cut-price cannabis’ farm. (2015, April 30). BBC News. Retrieved from http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-32531376.
