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Pre-set fines for cannabis offences, retailer rules established

As the introduction of legalized cannabis is closely approaching Manitoba has established a number of pre-set fines for cannabis-related provincial offences as well as rules and regulations for retailers selling the product in stores.

Ranging between $113 to $2,542 the fines cover the following offences:

•    supplying cannabis to a young person under age 19 – FINE | $2,542
•    growing recreational cannabis in a residence in Manitoba – FINE | $2,542
•    smoking and vaping cannabis in provincial parks – FINE | $672
•    transporting cannabis, if not properly stored – FINE | $237
•    consuming cannabis in or on vehicles including off-road vehicles – FINE | $672
•   failing drug-screening tests for both novice (FINE | $113) and supervising drivers (FINE | $672) as part of the graduated driver licensing program

“Our government has introduced a number of laws relating to cannabis in the interest of public safety and these fines ensure we are open and transparent with Manitobans about the consequences of breaking the law,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen.

Smoking or vaping cannabis in provincial park’s public spaces such as roadways and beaches can net you a fine the way the legislation is currently laid out. More restrictions are planned within provincial parks for campsites, outside spaces next to yurts or vacation cabins, canoe routes and trails along remote outdoor locations as well as back-country trails and campsites.

The province says that exceptions will apply to medical cannabis use. Private homes and cottages within provincial parks will also be exempt from some restrictions.

Drivers within the Graduated Driver Licencing  (GDL) program will also face new sanctions that will require them to be able to pass a drug-screening test while having care and control of a motor vehicle. These sanctions are similar to current restrictions related to alcohol consumption.

“We understand that drugged driving is every bit as dangerous as drunk driving,” said Cullen.  “The new drug-related restrictions for novice drivers ensure that we treat cannabis just as seriously as we treat alcohol for drivers that are just learning to safely operate a vehicle.”

The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority (LGCA) has set out regulations for licensed cannabis stores in an effort to keep the dug out of the hands of youth and provide safety and security in relation to product handling.

“Our government has consistently emphasized our commitment to keep cannabis out of the hands of our youth and away from the black market,” said Cullen “The measures approved by LGCA’s board set procedures and processes to prevent diversion of street cannabis into the licensed stores and to ensure retail sales only to people 19 years and older.”

Retailers of cannabis will be required to meet a number of requirements set out by the LGCA including:

• Install a security alarm system and commercial grade locks to protect cannabis from theft and diversion into the black market.
• Conduct appropriate background checks on prospective employees.
• Ensure every person involved in the sale of cannabis has successfully completed a training course specified by the LGCA’s executive director.
• Age verification to ensure sale only to people 19+.
• Maintain records respecting:

o cannabis inventory, including product received, available for sale and sold;
o cannabis that is not available for sale due to usage in display containers;
o cannabis subject to a recall;
o cannabis disposed of; and
o any additional matters specified by the executive director.

 

© 2018 News 4

 

 

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