Lawmakers Approve Ban On ‘Cannabis Light’ In Italy

The legal saga for low-THC cannabis products in Italy has taken another turn, with lawmakers in the European nation officially adopting a measure earlier today that bans certain hemp-derived products, often referred to as ‘cannabis light.’

A ‘security decree’ measure received final passage by Italy’s Senate today by a vote of 109-69. In addition to the ban on cannabis light, the measure also involved several other provisions championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing coalition government, including the introduction of 14 new crimes.

“It bans the trade of “cannabis light”, or hemp, which unlike marijuana has no mind-altering qualities, infuriating local entrepreneurs who say the move will cost thousands of jobs and imperil millions of euros of investments.” reported Reuters in its original coverage.

“Meloni’s coalition won elections decisively in September 2022 and is still riding high in polls after promising to get tough on law and order.” the outlet also reported.

All processing, distribution, trade, and transport of ‘cultivated hemp inflorescences’ is now prohibited under Italian law, although industry and policy advocates are pointing out that the new law is in direct conflict with European Union policies.

The newly approved measure comes after a recent court decision in which a cannabis light entrepreneur in Italy was acquitted by a Parma court of charges stemming from the seizure of 650 kilograms of hemp flowers and 19 liters of oil. The acquittal was rendered after a six-year court battle.

According to a recent economic report, Italy’s cannabis light industry employs over 20,000 people and provides a significant boost to Italy’s economy.

“The light cannabis sector has a direct economic impact of almost one billion euros, with another additional billion of indirect impact, and the creation of 22 thousand full-time jobs.” reported Dolce Vita in its original coverage.