BC Government Launches Public Consultation On Marijuana Sales

Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Tom Mark September 25, 2017 10:41 am
Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth announced this morning that consultation will begin immediately with the plan to have it done by November 1st. “I hope British Columbians will get involved, be heard, and help us shape how we maximize public health and safety when non-medical cannabis is legalized by the federal government next year,” said Farnworth. “While we already have laws banning drug-affected driving, and they remain in effect, this is also an opportunity for people to let us know how we can make them stronger and more effective.” In addition to the open public engagement process, government will also proactively seek opinions from a representative cross-section of British Columbians on their views concerning non-medical cannabis regulations, with a random telephone survey.Today through Nov. 1, people can share their views about B.C.’s approach to non-medical cannabis legalization at: www.engage.gov.bc.ca/BCcannabisregulation/

Farnworth made the announcement at the Union of BC Municipalities Convention in Vancouver. He said it will include municipal governments, First Nations, the public and affected groups. As well, the Province has invited the Union of B.C. Municipalities to establish a standing committee on cannabis legalization so local governments can share their experience, knowledge and concerns as B.C.’s regulatory framework develops. Farnworth says there may not be a one size fits all approach for distribution. The minister says it will also be critical to work with the federal government to ensure a legal supply of marijuana is available. “We want to hear from as many people as possible about how we can best protect our kids, keep our roads safe, and lock criminals out of the non-medical cannabis industry,” said Farnworth. “It’s critical that we work together to ensure the legalization of non-medical cannabis results in safer, healthier communities.” He says this isn’t about bringing on a new revenue stream for the province. Farnworth says the government wants to ensure the implementation of marijuana sales is done right.
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Stakeholder Submissions

To help ensure that our provincial cannabis regulatory system reflects the needs and values of British Columbians, government is seeking feedback on the following issues:

• minimum age;
• personal possession limits;
• public consumption;
• drug-impaired driving;
• personal cultivation; and
• distribution and retail models.

Stakeholders have been invited to send a formal submission by November 1, 2017 at 4 p.m.

Any organization may submit a written submission. Individuals are encouraged to submit the feedback form online.

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Don Quixote Note:

I submitted the survey my only added comments were:

• What are the implications for Home Insurance if Cannabis is allowed to be grown in a house.
• All cannabis whether sold through Government stores or retail stores in B.C. must be obtained ONLY from the licensed and authorized producers that the federal Govt  has authorized.