The recent decision by the Lazio Regional Administrative Court (Tar) to suspend the government decree equating CBD with narcotics has sparked a series of reactions from politicians and activists in the sector. This ruling represents a significant milestone in the regulatory battle surrounding cannabis light in Italy, and the statements from various parties highlight the differing viewpoints on this issue.
Satisfaction and Victory for Cannabis Light Growers
One of the key players in this case was the Imprenditori Canapa Italia (ICI) association, which filed the appeal with the Tar. Their reaction to the decree’s suspension was one of deep satisfaction, emphasizing that this decision protects a sector that would have suffered significant economic damage. Entrepreneurs pointed out the importance of the ruling as a recognition of their arguments, reiterating that the decree would have had serious repercussions not only on the cannabis light market but also on the rural economy that benefits from this crop (ANSA.it).
Reactions from +Europa and M5S: A Victory Against Prohibitionist Propaganda
Political figures like Riccardo Magi, secretary of +Europa, also welcomed the suspension. Magi described the Tar’s decision as a defeat for the government’s “prohibitionist propaganda,” praising the court for recognizing that CBD, a component without psychoactive effects, poses no danger. Similarly, Gilda Sportiello, a deputy from the M5S (Five Star Movement), expressed support, emphasizing that there is no scientific evidence to justify equating CBD with narcotics (ilGiornale.it).
Government Criticism: The Need to Protect Public Health
Not everyone welcomed the decision with enthusiasm. Maria Teresa Bellucci, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Policies, expressed strong criticism of the ruling, calling it worrisome from a public health perspective. Bellucci stressed that the government would continue to fight against the oral use of cannabis light products, citing perceived risks of normalizing products considered potentially dangerous. The government also announced its intention to appeal the suspension before the Council of State, continuing its battle to ban the commercialization of CBD (Secolo d’Italia) (ANSA.it).
Final Thoughts: The Regulatory Future of Cannabis Light
The suspension of the decree represents an initial victory for the cannabis light sector, but the future remains uncertain. The political statements show how divided the debate is: on one side, those who see cannabis light as an economic and agricultural opportunity, and on the other, those concerned about public health who seek to limit the spread of these products.
What is clear is that, beyond these temporary legal victories, the industry will need clearer and data-driven regulations to ensure long-term stability and growth. The final decision from the Council of State will be crucial for the future of cannabis light in Italy.
