The validity of the pilot project section of the Narcotics Act is limited to ten years. Apart from the pilot tests, the general ban on non-medical cannabis remains in force throughout Switzerland.*
Federal Council
The Federal Council adopted, at its meeting of March 31, 2021, the ordinance on pilot tests for the controlled release of cannabis for non-medical purposes. The text specifies the strict conditions under which the studies may be carried out. The aim of these trials is to provide a solid scientific basis for future decisions on the regulation of cannabis, reports the Federal Council’s communications service.
As of May 15, 2021, requests for the implementation of pilot trials on the consumption of cannabis for non-medical purposes can be filed with the Federal Office of Public Health. These studies should help to increase knowledge about the advantages and disadvantages of controlled access to cannabis. In particular, they will make it possible to assess and document, in a scientific framework, its effects on the health of users and on consumption habits, but also to measure its impact on the local illicit drug market as well as on the protection of young people. and on public safety.*
Controlled products and risk awareness*
As part of the pilot tests, consumers will be able to legally acquire various cannabis products. The proposed cannabis must meet high quality requirements and be organically grown. As supply chains are followed and tightly controlled from seed to product distribution, the black market will be bypassed. In addition to product information, participants will be made aware of the risks associated with consumption by point of sale staff who will be trained accordingly.*
Strictly supervised pilot tests*
Pilot tests will be rigorously supervised. Strict youth and health protection requirements as well as a total advertising ban will be applied. The quantity of cannabis that participants can buy per month will be limited, its resale prohibited, as will its consumption in public places. Only adults who already use cannabis will be able to participate in a study, minors will be excluded. Participants must also reside in the canton where the pilot test is set up. Finally, their state of health will be monitored throughout the study.*
The validity of the article on pilot projects of the Narcotics Act is limited to ten years. Apart from the pilot tests, the general ban on non-medical cannabis remains in force throughout Switzerland.*
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*** ndlr. : –.
