High Hopes For The Future

High Prospects

With the imminent legalization of recreational marijuana upon us, Canadian Provinces have started narrowing down the guidelines and regulations for future sales.

Alberta has just released their first proposal with other provinces sure to follow in due course. The proposal outlines the plan and possible framework for how to properly handle and maintain the distribution and use of the recreational drug.

A quick outline of proposed rules:

• Public possession limit of 30 grams (with no limit on possession in private residences).
• Sales will be in specialty stores, separate from alcohol, tobacco, and pharmaceuticals.
• Limit of 30 grams per purchase.
• Smoking and vaping in public will fall under existing tobacco laws. 
• No smoking or vaping in vehicles, including passengers.
• Four plants can be grown per household, to a maximum height of one meter each.
• Outdoor growing will be banned.
• Minimum age in Alberta will be 18 following the same laws as tobacco.

There have already been outcries at the proposal so expect some things to change, including the minimum age limit. Some believe as the brain is still developing at this stage, you should be at least 21 before consuming the drug.

Hours of operation and buffer zones for stores will be standardized by the province, but haven't been set yet. And it is not yet certain whether the distribution will be privately or publicly run.

No price set

The Cost? A burning question by many that is unfortunately still in the preliminary phase and not quite decided upon. Pricing, however, will be set with the goal in mind of reducing sales in the black market.

Where cannabis can be used

Like tobacco, there will be restrictions on where you can vape and smoke in public. Right now marijuana will follow existing tobacco laws, meaning Hospitals, school grounds, and anywhere frequented by children will be strictly prohibited including playgrounds, zoos, public washrooms etc. You and any passengers will also not be permitted to smoke in a vehicle.

Consumption will also not be allowed in retail stores, meaning no sampling.

Cannabis cafés and lounges will be outlawed initially, but the province is seeking feedback from Albertans on that issue.

Legislation surrounding drug-impaired driving will be introduced before the July legalization.

Zero tolerance for minors

There will be zero tolerance for cannabis use by minors.

Possession of fewer than five grams by anyone under 18 will result in the marijuana being seized, parents were notified and a ticket, while possession of more than five grams will result in criminal prosecution for minors.