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Marijuana legalization

Many states including Oregon, Michigan, Colorado, and Maine among many others have already legalized the use of marijuana for recreational purposes. However, an equally large number of states have not yet legalized such use of marijuana but discussions are ongoing. In New Jersey, for example, legislators are expected to vote soon, a move that will determine if marijuana use becomes legal or not. This comes after Michigan voted for the legal use of recreational marijuana by adults starting from the age of 21. In Vermont, adults are not only allowed to purchase but they can also grow marijuana for recreational purposes.
In Jersey, the voting process by the legislators was marred by controversies which is why it will be interesting to see if they pass the bill. The bill will allow adults to use marijuana but it is also pushing to have those convicted of marijuana use or possession in the past to be freed and their record scrapped. However, the Republicans are against the move, just like some Democrats making it look like the bill may not enough support to be passed after all. The success of this vote now depends on how a few of the legislators supporting it can persuade their counterparts to vote it in.           Unlike in the case of recreational use of marijuana, most states have laws allowing legal weed possession and use by those suffering from certain medical conditions. Such law is, however, broader than the laws covering recreational use since it covers different types of medical conditions which translates to the circumstance under which one is allowed to use weed. For instance, some states such as West Virginia and Louisiana allow consumption of marijuana only if it’s in the form of oils or drugs. This means that you are not allowed to smoke the weed directly. The commonality in all states regarding the use of medicinal marijuana stems from eh fact that it is only allowed for specific medical conditions.
The only way to ensure you don’t get in trouble with the law when using marijuana is to ensure you know the laws governing such us in your state. In some states like Alabama, Idaho, Georgia, and Iowa among others, the use of marijuana is still illegal and is considered a criminal act. In others like a district of Colombia, Michigan, and Massachusetts among others, the use of weed is legal making it easier for you to find a place to buy marijuana. In other states like Arizona, Minnesota, New York, and Oklahoma among others there are mixed laws concerning the use of marijuana meaning it is only allowed under special circumstances. Other states also allow minimal possession. These laws tend to change frequently which means you should check for updates regularly.
Conclusion     Marijuana legalization is at an all-time high considering the fact that 43 states have legalized its use with 33 of them limiting it to medicinal use. The cannabis legalization laws are still expected to advance given the way its supporters won the elections. The states most likely to do this include Illinois, Minnesota, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, and New Jersey. Other governors in other states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania have also expressed interest in making a move towards decriminalization of marijuana. All these show that marijuana use will soon be legal in the majority if not all the states.

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5 Places That are Chill About Cannabis in North America

It wasn’t too long ago that if you got caught growing cannabis plants or in possession of cannabis almost anywhere in the world, you would have faced detrimental legal issues. Today, however, as the movement to legalize cannabis has progressed globally, there are many places where adults over the age of 21 and medical cannabis patients can cultivate their own cannabis at home as well as purchase and consume cannabis with certain restrictions and limitations. Here are 5 of the best states for cannabis consumption in the U.S.

Colorado

Colorado was one of the first states in the United States to allow for legal recreational market. Since 2014 when doors to the first dispensaries opened in the state for adult consumption sales, the state has been a tourist destination at the top of the list of many stoners and consumers alike. Tourists are able to purchase up to 1 ounce of dried flower or the equivalency of other cannabis products.

Washington

Washington state is one of the most vastly beautiful states in the Pacific Northwest according to many. It has become even more beautiful to a lot of folks since they legalized an adult cannabis market in 2012. With a vast variety of outdoor attractions and landmarks, it is a natural attraction for cannabis lovers. According to the government regulatory agency that oversees the program in the state; “Adults 21 years of age or older may legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana, 16 ounces of marijuana-infused product in solid form, and 72 ounces of marijuana-infused product in liquid form.”

Oregon

Whether you are looking for beautiful beaches, vast forests, or towering mountains, Oregon has you covered. If you are looking to get elevated, thanks to Ballot Measure 91, if you are over the age of 21 you can partake in a toke of cannabis. Adults over the age of 21 in the state are able to possess up to one ounce of cannabis or an equivalent amount of concentrates, edibles, and other cannabis-infused products.

California

California is home to the Emerald Triangle, Humboldt County, and the countries first medical cannabis program. Cali is also probably one of the most cannabis-friendly states in the United States. In November of 2017, voters in the state approved a measure that legalized an adult cannabis market in the state. These laws took effect in January of 2018 and dispensaries have been opening their doors ever since. If you are looking to visit Cali and are at least 21 years old, you can legally possess one ounce of bud, or 8 grams of cannabis concentrates.

Nevada

The home of Sin City is also a trendy cannabis destination in the United States. Question 2 passed by way of the majority vote in 2014, and in November of 2016, cannabis officially became legal with restrictions for adults over the age of 21. In the state of Nevada, adults are able to legally possess and purchase either 1 ounce of dried cannabis or an eighth (3.5) grams of cannabis concentrates.

We Can’t Forget Canada

Canada also recently legalized cannabis for adults over the age of 21. This change in law allows for adults over the age of 18 or 19 depending on where you live to possess small amounts of cannabis. In some provinces they have also allowed for home grows. This makes Canada a prime area for cannabis consumption in North America as well!
Where is your favorite place in North America to toke up? Weed love to hear from you in the comments below!

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Did Mexico Just End Cannabis Prohibition?

“Sexy Mexy,” “Mexican Red Hair”,” and ” Mexican Swag. ” These are just a few of the terms I’ve heard pertaining to Mexican grown cannabis over the years.  You see, like in the U.S. the illicit cannabis market has blossomed throughout the country for many years. This is despite a prohibition being enforced against the plant for decades. In the past few years, however, there have been multiple rulings that have led up to what will soon forever change the legality of cannabis in Mexico.
Here is a little history surrounding cannabis in Mexico!

  • It is believed, that cannabis was first brought to Mexico by the Spanish during the 16th century.
  • Hemp was a widely cultivated crop throughout the Spanish colony for the production of textiles.
  • By mid-19th century cannabis was widely used for recreational and medicinal purposes throughout Mexico.
  • Near the end of the 19th-century cannabis started to be introduced to prohibition. It all started with a military hospital in Mexico City in 1882.
  • In 1920 cannabis was banned from being sold utilized or produced.
  • In 1927 there was also a ban placed on the exportation of cannabis out of the country.
  • Just like in the United States during the 1960’s and 70’s cannabis was very prevalent in Mexico. During this time, the US government-sponsored a controversial program. This program allowed helicopters to spray the herbicide paraquat across cannabis fields throughout Mexico.

 
Despite many efforts throughout the years cannabis never met its demise in Mexico and likely never will thanks to recent rulings. Let’s take a look at what has led up to the recent monumental rulings.

The Path to Legalization

The path to legalization officially began in August of 2009 in Mexico. It was at this time that Mexico took steps to decriminalize cannabis possession in small amounts. These rules were also applied to other street drugs. This was in an attempt to reduce or eliminate the illicit black-market drug activity in the country.
This first step to legalization established maximum amounts to be considered personal use. This new law defined 5 grams of cannabis as being personal use. It did not completely legalize it however even in this small amount. What it did do is allow those caught in possession of cannabis to seek drug rehabilitation rather than incarceration or a fine.
The next step to legalization occurred 7 years later in 2015. In November of this year four individuals from the Mexican Society for Responsible and Tolerant Personal Use were granted permission from the Supreme Court to grow and consume their own cannabis.
This judgment received a 4:1 vote by the court. Their decision was based on the finding that cannabis prohibition was unconstitutional in the respect that it violated the human right to free development of one’s personality. This judgment however only applied to these four individuals.

The Latest Rulings – What You Need to Know

The latest and what should prove to be the most significant ruling took place on October 31st, of 2018. The Mexico Supreme Court issued two rulings on this day in relation to cannabis. The first ruling was the 5th of its kind based on the finding that cannabis prohibition is unconstitutional.
Being that it is the 5th ruling, according to law in Mexico, it becomes precedent. This means that Congress must rewrite the drugs laws in the nation to comply with this ruling. They have 90 days to do so according to The Washington Post.
The second ruling declares that all judges nationally are now bound by judgment of the Supreme Court should they choose to prosecute cannabis charges for small amounts.
So is cannabis now legal in Mexico? Well not exactly. While decriminalization statutes still apply it is very unlikely that a judge would pursue charges for small amounts of cannabis under this ruling. So you could say that cannabis is legal in a practical sense, but until laws have been rewritten it is not formal.
The big question now is, what will they replace the current law with? Some believe that they will simply formalize the same regulations that were granted in 2009 to the 4 individuals. Others, however, feel that they will take this chance to regulate a market surrounding the cultivation, purchase, and consumption of cannabis like Canada recently did. For now, it is uncertain. What we do know is that this latest ruling will drastically change cannabis laws in Mexico for the better!

Progress Not Perfection – 3 More States are Victorious in Cannabis Legalization

Progress, not perfection was seen this year in the 2018 elections regarding cannabis legalization. Draconian cannabis prohibition is slowly coming to an end in the United States. America is falling behind in the global cannabis community that is continually growing. Thanks to outdated laws pertaining to a widely misunderstood plant, countless lives have been ruined.
Luckily states are taking the initiative to listen to the will of their citizens. Cannabis legalization is widely supported in the United States with some polls showing that support between 60 to 80%. Advocating an end to the US Federal government’s outdated marijuana prohibition, Michigan voted yes for adult use cannabis. Missouri and Utah also join the ranks of so many others taking a stance voting yes for medical cannabis.

Michigan

Proposal 1 received the majority of support from voters with a 56 to 44% vote. This makes Michigan the first Midwestern state to legalize adult use cannabis.  Don’t get too excited just yet. Your dreams of going to a dispensary anytime soon may have just went up in smoke. Like so many states Michigan is expected to have delays while the infrastructure and framework for retail cannabis are set up.
Predictions put the first commercial sales of adult use cannabis around 2020. Residents of Michigan will be able to grow up to 12 plants for personal consumption. Adults 21 and up will be allowed the possession of 2 and 1/2 oz of cannabis on them personally and up to 10 oz at home.
As with anything in the US federal government nothing is set in stone. The legislature could still amend sections of the proposal if they rallied a 3/4 vote. The only areas so far that have any mention of possible changes is how many plants can be grown, issues with how communities vote for cannabis and sales tax. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled in the state of Michigan as it’s setting up to be one of the largest consumer cannabis markets in America.

Missouri

Amendment 2 received a 66 to 34% vote in favor of passing medical cannabis! This allows the Show Me State to show just how effective cannabis can be as a medicine. Doctors in the state of Missouri are able to make recommendations for medical cannabis as they see fit. There are no specific qualifying conditions in the state. Those with a physicians approval will receive identification cards allowing them or a registered caregiver to grow six plants as well as purchase a monthly allotment of 4 oz from dispensaries. Missouri will have a 4% retail tax placed on medical cannabis sales. Amendment 3 failed with a 31 to 69% vote while Proposition C also failed with a 44 to 56% vote. In the coming weeks more, information about when access will be available in the state of Missouri is sure to unfold.

Utah

Citizens of Utah can now truly live life elevated. For those who are suffering from debilitating medical conditions, chronic pain, and other life-altering symptoms, they will soon have access to medical cannabis. Utah was considered to be among the most conservative states in the nation. Voters in Utah have spoken with a 53 to 47% vote in favor of legalizing medical cannabis.
Proposition 2 states that patients will be required to receive a physician approval to be issued state identification cards. This would allow patients to purchase 2 oz of cannabis or products that contain 10 grams of cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol every two weeks from a dispensary. For those who live more than a hundred miles from a dispensary, they would be allowed to cultivate six plants. While smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco is still legal in Utah, smoking cannabis flower is not under the current measure.
As you can see with these laws, they are progress, not perfection. Cannabis legalization is inevitable in the United States, but it is being controlled and regulated by those who have a proven history of greed. U.S. politicians are allowing America to fall behind while the rest of the world partakes in a multibillion-dollar green industry.
These three states are yet another victory. While many people are celebrating this victory, please don’t forget the countless lives destroyed and those still sitting behind bars because of this plant loved by so many. Free the weed, and free the people that support it, progress not perfection.

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Canada Legalized – What U.S. Visitors Should Know Before They Head North to Higher Country

Cannabis legalization happened across all of Canada on October 17th, 2018. For adults 18 and older, you can now for take in a wake and bake without the fear of prosecution. The same can’t be said for Canada’s sister to the South.
The United States of America is behind many places in the world including Canada when it comes to ending draconian cannabis prohibition. Politicians and federal authorities tinker and toy with the lives of millions of citizens while just one imaginary line to the north freedom exists. The United States of America is supposed to be united, but that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore.
It’s more like the land of who has the most money. If you want to enjoy cannabis legally, there are only a handful of states in which you can do this on a retail or recreational level. However, if you go to Canada, you can partake in a wake and bake anywhere in the country. Before you go though there are some things you need to know.

Oh Canada, Here I Come

In order to get across the border, you’ll need a valid passport. If you’re going to bring your pet, make sure you have the proper paperwork. Don’t try to bring fruit across the border as that is a big no-no. Cigarettes and booze are available in limited quantities from duty-free stores. Don’t try to take back more than your supposed to though.
Should you be considering taking a gift to Canada, you’ll want to know if that gift is valued at more than $60. This is because if it is, you may be required to pay an additional tax. Driving in Canada is much the same as it ends in America except for some fundamental traffic laws and the speed limit. Speeds are measured in kilometers, not miles so remember its kilometers per hour not miles per hour.
Don’t smoke in a car if you have a minor child or you can find yourself in trouble. Whatever you do don’t ever text or talk on your phone going down the road unless it’s hands-free. You’ll also want to be sure that you have the right cheddar to spend while visiting Canada. US currency is accepted in many places but not everywhere.

There’s Still A Lot to Know Before You Go

If you’re used to roaming all over with your cell phone attached to your face, you better be ready for a wake-up visiting Canada. You could find yourself with excessive phone charges that some refer to as astronomical if you don’t have a pre-existing plan worked out for when you visit Canada.
If you have a criminal record, there is always the chance that you might not be permitted entry into Canada. Canadian border patrol agents can deny anyone entry into Canada. Even a DUI can get you denied.
Travel Insurance for healthcare when visiting Canada is another great idea to invest in. While Canada’s health care system covers a lot of things, it doesn’t include American visitors. If you get sick or hurt while you’re there, you could end up in despair at the costs.

Cheers to Cannabis, Beer, and Taxes Canada

Smoking cannabis is allowed for all adults. This means between the ages of 18-19 and up. Some provinces have laws allowing for the consumption of cannabis starting at 18 while others kick that age a year to 19. Make sure you know the rules in the province or provinces you plan to visit.
If you like to throw back a few beers, then be prepared for a slightly younger crowd than you’re used to in the US. The legal drinking age in Canada varies between 18 and 19 years old depending on what province you’re visiting. So, toss back them beers and say cheers, just be prepared to do so with a slightly younger crowd at some places.
If you’re familiar or used to shopping at dispensaries in the United States, then visiting Canada won’t be that much of a shock when it comes to taxes. There is an additional federal sales tax, and some provinces also add their own tax to things such as hotel and restaurant bills. This means that you can see as much as an extra 15% added to the total of what you were intending on spending.

Drink, Smoke, Eat, Play, and Be Merry in Canada

Canada offers all kinds of freedoms that you won’t find in the U.S. For America being the land of the free they sure seem to have a lot of rules restricting those freedoms. Maybe with luck, the U.S. will take a play from their neighbor to the north and listen to the people when it comes to cannabis.
The United States of America’s Federal Government started this draconian war on drugs and the attempted irradiation of cannabis. It’s time that they end it. Until then we’ll continue to fight for cannabis rights in America. At least now though we can venture north to enjoy true freedom in Canada from time to time.
Remember before you go, there are some things you’ll want to know. To find out where all the most lit events in cannabis are happening be sure to check out Expert Joints. Craig has all the latest and greatest info about cannabis in Canada. Above all though remember to consume responsibly and have fun.

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Why Marijuana Should Be Legalized In The US (Infographic)

Marijuana legalization continues to be a debate in all states. Many have considered its benefits while others remained in close contempt to put away any facts that one can get from using marijuana. It’s a worldwide issue which resulted to countless amounts of studies to gather information whether or not cannabis is helpful.
According to series of results, anyone can benefit from this plant especially those that needs medical attention that can’t be found alone from regular medication. How is this possible? Cannabis alone contains a lot of neuron elements that has a great affect to the body.
Colorado is one of the few that actually passed the legalization of marijuana and surprisingly, it helped with their economy. Many individuals are now open to opening up their own canna-business and a lot are undergoing herbal treatments using this weed. So why can’t us?
This infographic offers a broad and detailed marijuana facts, benefits, and statistics on its positive effects to users. Not only that but it also shows the economic boost it gave to states which have legalized the said substance. It also provides a comprehensive information about its medical benefits to those who need a cure for their illnesses.
Infographic courtesy of:  testclear.com

 

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Recreational Dispensaries Could Finally Be Opening Shop in Massachusetts

Massachusetts voters legalized adult recreational cannabis via a ballot initiative vote in November of 2016. The state had already taken steps back in 2008 to decriminalize small amounts of cannabis for personal use. As of December of 2016, though adults in the state of Massachusetts possessing less than 1 oz of cannabis in public or 10 oz of cannabis in their home we’re officially abiding by the law.
The initiative in which voters passed in 2016 also allowed for the creation of cannabis dispensaries to serve the needs of adult consumers in the state. To date, however, none have opened. This could change however in the coming days.

It’s Been a Long Road but Dispensaries Could Open Soon

Like with every other state that has chosen to legalize cannabis it has taken time to do so. It has taken time for businesses to obtain all the approvals that are required for them to open shop. Entrepreneurs looking to open dispensaries in the state of Massachusetts don’t just have to obtain licensing and approval by the state. They also have to come to an agreement with their local governments before the state will review their applications.
As of September 6th, there were over 2,500 pending applications for various types of cannabis businesses hoping to open their doors to the new commercial market in the state. On September 20th there will be a Cannabis Control Commission hearing in which the first licenses may be approved.
On this date, the commission, which is the state’s cannabis authority, will review the applications of businesses that have passed certain aspects. Aspects such as physical site inspections as well as staff fingerprinting. If businesses that have passed these aspects receive approval on Sept. 20th, they could technically open their doors the next day. That is if they have met all other requirements including submitting their business license fee.
If no businesses receive approval during this meeting of the Cannabis Control Commission, the next hopeful date will be Oct 4th.

What is Legal for Cannabis Consumers in Massachusetts?

We know that Massachusetts has legalized cannabis and that dispensaries may soon open their doors, but what is and isn’t legal? Here is a breakdown of what is and isn’t allowed for adult cannabis consumers in the state. This is based upon the text of the approved ballot initiative passed in 2016.

What can be purchased and by who?

Adults over the age of 21 are allowed to purchase 1 ounce of cannabis. Alternately they can chose 5 grams of cannabis concentrates, or an equivalent combination of the two. This is the limit per day from licensed and state-regulated recreational cannabis dispensaries. Adults over the age of 21 will not be permitted to enter a medical cannabis dispensary without proof of a medical marijuana card upon entry.

How much cannabis can be legally possessed by adults over the age of 21 in the state?

Adults are able to legally travel with up to 1 ounce of cannabis in flower form, 5 grams of cannabis concentrates, or equivalence of the two within the state as long as it is not visible in the vehicle. In the privacy of their own homes, adults can possess up to 10 ounces of cannabis (or more) if the crop is from plants they cultivated at the residence.

Can adults obtain cannabis from friends legally?

Yes, as long as no money or services are provided in return.

Are adult consumers allowed to grow their own stash?

Yes. The initiative passed by voters allow for adults to grow up to 6 cannabis plants per adult residing at the residence. There is, however, a cap of 12 plants per household.

Where will dispensaries be located?

According to most reports, we can expect to see recreational dispensaries open in the following cities; Leicester, Northampton, Easthampton, Amesbury, Brookline, Salem, Fall River, Wareham, Plymouth, Lowell, and Greenfield. It is expected that a few others may receive approval in outlying areas as well.

Where can cannabis be consumed legally in the state?

Cannabis, unlike harmful and deadly cigarettes, can only be consumed in a few places. Parks and public areas are out of the question along with smoking in your car. If you live in the state or are visiting, you can legally consume in a private residence. That is if the home is owned by the occupants or consumption is approved by the landlord. Cannabis will also be able to be consumed at some private clubs and in some rental properties. Consumption on properties such as AirBnBs and hotels will be up to the owner/operators discretion.

Can cannabis that is legally purchased at a dispensary be taken out of state?

Absolutely not. Despite that it was legally obtained, any cannabis found in possession of someone outside of the state will still subject said individuals to the laws in the state in which they are found in possession of the product.
While it may have taken the state nearly 2 years, it is very exciting to see that we could be just a few short days away from seeing Massachusetts make history. And by making history, I mean by opening the doors to the states very first recreational cannabis dispensaries!
 

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Border Tensions: Canadians Could be Denied Access to the US for Cannabis Ties

While Canada has always been more liberal when it comes to their laws surrounding cannabis their upcoming legalization of retail adult use cannabis could start to cause some real issues at the border. In a recent statement to the news site known as Politico a senior US border official stated that “Canadians that are working or invested within the Cannabis sector could be denied entry into the US.” In fact, they could be “deemed inadmissible” banning them from crossing the border into the United States forever.

Just Another Outdated Tactic Holding on to Prohibition

In less than a month Canada is set to become the very first industrialized nation to legalize the recreational possession, cultivation, and consumption of cannabis by adults throughout their country. In the United States just south of Canada the federal government has not budged on their nearly century-old stance towards the very beneficial and nearly harmless plant. This is even though over half of the states in the United States have actually implemented comprehensive medical cannabis programs in more than a handful of states have also decided to allow adults the choice of a safer recreational alternative.
The current Canadian policy according to the Executive Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Field Operations Todd Owen “border officials on the Canadian US border are permitted to question Canadians about their cannabis use and association to the industry if they have a cause to do so.” He went on to state that “officers are not going to be asking everyone whether they have used marijuana but if other questions lay there or if there is a smell coming from the car they might ask.”

Something Legal Shouldn’t Ban You From a Country

It’s not just individuals that work within the Cannabis sector that need to worry about whether or not they will be able to enter the United States it is also those who are honest about their cannabis consumption. Despite the fact that you are a Canadian Living in Canada after the legalization of recreational Cannabis takes place if you admit to Canadian border officials that you consume cannabis legally in the country they have the right to deny you access from crossing the border into the lower 48.
In a report by the BBC which reached out to the US Customs and Border Protection Agency the CBP did validate that “working in or facilitating the proliferation of the legal marijuana industry in US states where it’s deemed legal or in Canada may affect a foreign national’s admissibility to the United States” solidifying that those working in the Cannabis sector although they are working legally could be denied access into the United States. This is simply ridiculous.

The Policy Most Likely Won’t Cause Many Issues

For many, however, this policy will most likely cause no issues as there are approximately 400,000 individuals that crossover between the two countries each day without incident even though it is widely known that a large percentage of Canadians enjoy utilizing cannabis for recreational or medical purposes. If you are a significant player in the sector however or are highly invested in the industry, you could encounter some issues just because people know that you are associated with the industry.

It Already Has Though for Some

Take for example a Vancouver businessman that was banned from crossing the border into the United States back in July only because he had made investments in US cannabis companies. He was not just banned from entering that day he was banned from entering the country for life. This is not the only case where individuals have been turned away and denied entry to the country. In fact, immigration lawyers have stated that they have heard similar accounts from clients throughout the industry.

Just Smoke a Joint Already

It’s sad that either country would waste precious resources on prohibiting cannabis professionals from moving freely between the two countries if they are not committing any crimes or participating in illegal operations. It would be like saying someone who works in a brewery in Canada couldn’t enter the United States because some states don’t allow for breweries. If you ask me everyone needs to get together and smoke a joint and get over the tensions that exist between the two countries when it comes to the topic of cannabis and embrace it once and for all.
Perhaps in the coming years, the United States will catch up to Canada, and the issue of cannabis will no longer be an issue on either side of the border.

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This is What Cannabis Legalization Will Look Like in Canada

On June 19, 2018, the Canadian Senate voted in favour of cannabis legalization. Although public responses have varied, every reaction was followed up with one burning question: What next?
Unfortunately, there’s no one clear answer. As recreational cannabis moves into the mainstream, each province and territory will have its own legislation regarding minimum age to purchase, where you can buy—and consume—and who will be able to sell. It’s an evolving landscape that licensed producers are navigating alongside ancillary businesses.
Here’s what you need to know about each province:
British Columbia
Despite being known for its laid back west coast vibes, both growers and consumers in B.C. will face more restrictions than a lot of other provinces. Smoking cannabis will be prohibited wherever smoking tobacco is, with the addition of community spaces (sports fields, skating rinks, playgrounds, etc) and anywhere else that kids might commonly gather. Law enforcement won’t be taking infractions lightly: you may face serious penalty (a $2,000+ fine or up to three months’ jail time) for public intoxication.
Micro-producers in British Columbia—licensed cannabis cultivators with a smaller, more focused operation, similar to current craft breweries—will also feel the sting of targeting, having to first sell their cannabis strains to the government and then buy it back if they wish to sell directly.
Alberta
Following their current legal drinking and smoking ages, the minimum age to purchase cannabis in Alberta will be 18—setting it apart from most of the country, which will still hold a strict 19+ age policy in line with their drinking laws.
Also unlike many other provinces, Alberta will allow for privately-owned retail sales and brick-and-mortar shops, placing a 15% cap on how much of the market each business can retain.
Saskatchewan
With arguably the most lax upcoming sales model in the country, Saskatchewan will allow for cannabis to be sold through privately-owned brick-and-mortar retailers, as well as online. This will be huge for retailers and will create more, varied options for consumers.
Manitoba
Manitoba’s minimum age to purchase policy doesn’t line up with smoking and drinking. Nineteen-year-olds will be in a bar with 18-year-olds, and the 19-year-olds will be allowed to go out and smoke pot while the 18-year-olds won’t. This is because, while minimum age to drink or buy cigarettes is 18 in the province, you will have to be at least 19 to purchase cannabis.
Another way Manitoba is going against the grain is in their home growing policies. While legalization will allow Canadians to possess up to four, personal-use plants, Manitoba (along with Quebec) has banned this practice.
Ontario
Without skipping a beat, Ontario will roll out an online retail platform provided by the Ontario Cannabis Store starting October 17—the day the legalization comes into effect. This will be followed up by a private, brick-and-mortar retail model launching April 1, 2019.
“The Government of Ontario will not be in the business of running physical cannabis stores,” said Minister of Finance Vic Fedeli. “Instead, we will work with private sector businesses to build a safe, reliable retail system that will divert sales away from the illegal market.”
Quebec
Not only will Quebec have the youngest age to purchase at 18—they’ll also have the cheapest product, at an average of $5.88 per gram. (Undoubtedly, this could add to Montreal’s reputation as a go-to party destination.)
Much like Manitoba, home growing will be banned in Quebec—however, there are plans to review the ban in two to three years, presumably after some fine-tuning of early operations.
NEW BRUNSWICK
New Brunswick is placing a heavy emphasis on “safety first” when it comes to cannabis. Private retail sales will not be available in this province, and all marijuana within a private residence will be required to be kept under lock and key—similar to the province’s current gun laws.
NEWFOUNDLAND
This province will likely get to make Canadian cannabis history, as the timezone primes it to be the first place to (legally) buy recreational marijuana in the country. Newfoundland will also be the only maritime province to allow privately owned retail stores—LP giants Canopy Growth will have four locations throughout the province, including an outlet attached directly to their grow facilities in St. John’s.
NOVA SCOTIA
According to StatsCan, Nova Scotia currently has the highest cannabis use per capita in the country—along with the largest recreational marijuana “black market”, as a result. In an attempt to dissuade people from illegal dispensaries—and overcome building logistics that go along with being a highly-rural, dispersed province—the province will allow cannabis sales within all existing NSLC liquor stores.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
P.E.I. is largely flying under the radar when it comes to cannabis. The province will roll out distribution similar to their current alcohol laws, with online and in-store purchase available through private sector only.
YUKON + NORTHWEST TERRITORIES + NUNAVUT
Based on their proximity to growers and producers, as well as size of community and demand, the territories will likely only ever experience cannabis sales via online purchase—although there is a possibility of the Yukon eventually rolling out brick-and-mortar shops.
Of course, as we move towards legalization over the next few months, it’s important to keep up to date with your own province’s rules and regulations so you know just what to expect come October 17, 2018.

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Vaping and Edibles Still Illegal in Canada

In June, Canada’s Senate voted 52-29 to approve the Cannabis Act, making it the second country in the world to legalize recreational marijuana nationwide (Uruguay was the first, in 2014). Prime minister Justin Trudeau and his liberal party have been pushing for legalization since 2015. Their mission is to get pot off the black market, thereby reducing crime and the demands on law enforcement, while also increasing regulation, public health and safety.
 

The new law will make it legal for adults – age 18 or 19, depending on the province – to possess up to 30 grams of pot, and cultivate up to 4 plants. It also establishes a nationwide, legal marijuana marketplace, with each province deciding on it’s own rules and regulations. But don’t start celebrating just yet, because the bill won’t take effect until October 17th – and pot is still very much illegal until then.

Edibles Off-Limits

The new law also doesn’t legalize all kinds of cannabis products overnight. It doesn’t apply to cannabis-infused edibles or beverages, for instance. The government has said that these products pose special regulatory challenges – like dosage and portion sizing – and it needs more time to consider these factors before it opens up these markets. How long, exactly? Regulations should be in place sometime in 2019, according to a spokesman for Canada’s health minister.
Until then, keep this in mind: Canada has decided to delay the sale of marijuana edibles, not their possession or use. So if you prefer to ingest your pot, it’s perfectly legal for you to make your own at home. So by all means, dust off those cannabis cookbooks and whip up a batch of your favorite brownies. Or try out some of our recipes, like these Fudge-You-Up brownies,  or chewy pot cookies. We’ve also got recipes for cannabis tea and hot chocolate.
You’re welcome 🙂

No Vaping Either

Another product that won’t be available for purchase (legally) in October is marijuana oils and vape juices. Before these products hit the market, the government needs to figure out how to regulate their processing, quality, potency, etc. Again, the government plans to have these regulations in place sometime next year. Until then, you’ll just have to smoke your herb the old fashion way.
Or you could try out a CBD vape oil as alternative, to hold you over until other products hit the market. Non-psychoactive CBD e-juices have long been available through Canada’s medicinal marijuana market, and online retailers abound.
The Cannabis Act is a huge step forward for Canada, and a shining example to other countries around the world. One of the reasons for the delay in rolling out edibles and vaping products is the lack of precedent. Canada, along with some U.S. states, are essentially blazing a new trail here, and it takes time to figure out the best way forward. But with the cannabis industry projected to become a multi-billion dollar market, the trailblazers are in position to reap the greatest rewards.