Where can cannabis be smoked, sold and at what age should people be able to legally use it are some of the questions in an online provincial survey put out last week as the federal government works on legislation that would allow greater legal access to the drug by July 2018.
Legislation introduced by the Liberal Party in April proposes the decriminalization of less than 30 grams of cannabis for personal use and will allow individuals to grow up to four marijuana plants.
Alberta Justice Minister Kathleen Ganley announced Friday the Province is seeking the opinions of Albertans on issues related to legalization of cannabis possession under 30 grams.
“We have a lot of work ahead of us, some important decisions to make,” Ganley said. “We will be creating a framework that will help our province adapt to the federal governments decision to legalize cannabis.”
Laws governing marijuana are handled by the federal government, but the Province has a say on how it is produced and distributed and sold in Alberta. For example, whether the Province says cannabis could be sold in private, licensed stores or in government stores, similar to government-run liquor stores in other Provinces.
“How we implement it here in our province will be a decision made in Alberta,” Ganley said.
The survey asks individuals and organizations to comment on their priorities on issues such as keeping cannabis out of the hands of children, driving and working while high and if cannabis cafés should be allowed.
Ganley said the Province is looking at the health ramifications as well.
“We want to hear about health concerns including exposure to second-hand smoke,” she said.
The provincial survey, found at www.alberta.ca, is available until July 31, 2017.
Provincial officials will meet with police, marijuana producers, addictions and mental health organizations and youth.
Surveys will also be available at summer events, like festivals, Ganley said.
Municipalities could also have a say over marijuana-related issues, such as where the stores are located and where it can be used in public.
Okotoks council has a bylaw that gives them final say on where ‘adult shops’ can be located in town after a head shop opened near a Montessori School in July 2014, causing concern for parents.
Ganley said Provincial officials will be meeting with municipalities on the issue.
Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools division superintendent Scott Morrison said marijuana will be prohibited on school grounds and students will face disciplinary actions if they come to school high.
