On Friday, March 22, 2019, the government announced the next seven rural communities that will getting cannabis retail stores.

Pre-qualified applicants will be part of a random draw for licenses to operate in Altona, Flin Flon, Lac du Bonnet, Niverville, Swan River, Virden and the RM of Russell-Binscarth.

Once selected the applicants will still have to go through the agreement and licensing process to operate one of the stores.

The province has said that it is their intent to have a cannabis retail store available within a 30-minute drive for 90% of the population.

“Following the federal government’s decision to legalize non-medical cannabis, we have implemented a system that allows private retailers to do what they do best while balancing public health and safety priorities,” said Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen. “We are reaffirming our commitment to a competitive retail system and look forward to advancing new commercial opportunities as the industry matures.”

Local community governments have input as to where in the community cannabis retail operations can set up.

There is no word when the draws will take place or when retail shops will actually open in the communities.