Slovenia is rapidly positioning itself as a leader in European cannabis reform, marking two pivotal moments this July in the nation’s legislative journey. After years of advocacy and public support, lawmakers officially approved a comprehensive medical cannabis bill—and introduced a forward-looking proposal to permit limited adult-use cultivation and possession.
Medical Cannabis Law Officially Approved
In a landmark decision on July 15, Slovenia’s National Assembly passed a groundbreaking medical cannabis measure with a strong majority: 50 votes in favor, 29 against, and 2 abstentions. The legislation is being hailed as one of the most advanced in Europe, if not globally, for its open-access structure and patient-centered approach.
The new law legalizes the cultivation, production, distribution, and use of Cannabis sativa L. for medical and scientific purposes, all under a regulated framework. Notably, it removes cannabis and THC from the country’s list of prohibited substances for medical use within 90 days of enactment.
Unlike more restrictive systems, Slovenia’s model introduces a non-exclusive licensing framework that welcomes both public and private participants. Any individual or business that meets the outlined requirements can apply for a license—no public tender or state monopoly necessary.
To ensure product quality and patient safety, all medical cannabis must be cultivated and manufactured in accordance with GACP, GMP, and European Pharmacopoeia standards. Doctors can prescribe cannabis for any condition they deem appropriate, without special narcotics protocols. Patients will receive a dedicated “cannabis card” to streamline pharmacy pickups and avoid legal complications.
The measure also guarantees a stable domestic supply, freeing patients from relying on inconsistent imports. This bold move not only enhances patient access but also invites local innovation and economic opportunity in a growing market projected to exceed €55 million by 2029.
“This is a giant step forward—not just for Slovenia, but for cannabis reform worldwide,” said Alex Rogers, CEO of the International Cannabis Business Conference and a Slovenian resident. “Slovenia now stands at the forefront of compassionate, science-based cannabis policy.”
Adult-Use Legalization Proposal Introduced
Just days after the medical legislation passed, Slovenian lawmakers introduced a separate measure aimed at regulating personal-use cannabis. Though still in early stages, the proposal reflects a broader shift in public sentiment and political will.
If enacted, the adult-use measure would allow individuals to cultivate up to 4 cannabis plants per person—or 6 per household—for personal use. It would also permit adults to possess up to 7 grams of cannabis outside the home and as much as 150 grams in private residences (or 300 grams in shared households).
The proposal outlines specific allowances for gifting cannabis between adults, while continuing to prohibit sales, public consumption, and driving under the influence. Importantly, it would ban workplace drug testing for cannabis altogether—a significant statement on personal freedoms and privacy.
Driving violations would be enforced with a tiered per se THC limit starting at 3 ng/mL, with stricter penalties for higher levels.
The measure follows a 2023 referendum in which Slovenian voters overwhelmingly supported reform: 66.7% backed medical legalization, and 51.6% supported the adult-use initiative. Though non-binding, the referendums sent a clear message to policymakers—and that message is now being heard.
A New Era for Slovenia and Europe
With these twin developments, Slovenia is stepping confidently into a new era—one that balances patient access, scientific advancement, and personal freedom. Long respected for its innovation in research and development, the country now welcomes cannabis into that fold, offering a promising model for others across Europe.
As the momentum builds, all eyes will be on Slovenia to see how implementation unfolds—and how other EU nations respond to its trailblazing stance.
