Manitoba sets out how and where cannabis can be sold and measures to protect youth

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Manitoba sets out how and where cannabis can be sold and measures to protect youth

December 5, 2017
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New legislation was introduced in the house today that sets out where and how cannabis may be sold in Manitoba as well as outlawing the growth of cannabis for personal use.

“Manitoba continues to put responsible measures in place to respond to cannabis legalization, which includes ensuring the appropriate safeguards are there for legal retail sales,” said Justice Minister Heather Stefanson. “This new legislation sets out the regulatory framework, enforcement structures and compliance provisions that will help keep cannabis out of the hands of our youth and away from the black market.”

The new legislation, The Safe and Responsible Retailing of Cannabis Act would amend both the Liquor and Gaming Control Act and the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Control Act. The amendments would allow the authorizing and regulating the retail sale of cannabis in Manitoba once the federal law comes into force.

Justice Minister Heather Stefanson explains to media new legislation surrounding the sale of cannabis in Manitoba on December 5, 2017 (News 4)

As the province previously announced Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries would control the supply lines of cannabis and only product sourced through them would be legally sold in the province. The Liquor and Gaming Authority would be responsible for licensing stores and distributors as well as enforcement of compliance regulations. The name of the organization would also change to reflect their new responsibilities to The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority.

The proposed legislation will also outlaw growing cannabis at home for recreational use which goes against the federal proposed legislation that is expected to allow up to 4 plants for that purpose.

The legal age in Manitoba to buy, use or possess cannabis will be 19 and it will be illegal to sell cannabis to anyone who is intoxicated.

The new legislation will also allow municipalities to ban the sale of cannabis within their boundaries by holding a plebiscite but they cannot restrict the use of cannabis on private property within their boundaries.

-Staff-