|
|
You’ve moved to a new country, perhaps with a new language and customs to familiarize yourself with, and you’ve got a lot to learn. And then a strange-smelling smoke wafts over your backyard or balcony. Suddenly, you worry that you have moved into a less-than-pleasant neighbourhood filled with drug users.
Do not wring your hands and worry quite yet! As the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex unions, Canada has developed a reputation for being relatively liberal. In 2001, Canada legalized the medical use of cannabis for those with various chronic physical and mental health illnesses. According to the Fraser Institute research paper on the Sensible Solution to Urban Drug Problem published in April 2001, public polls since 1997 indicate an increase in the opinion that “smoking marijuana should not be a criminal offence.” In 2018, the House of Commons and the Senate passed legislation to legalize the recreational use of cannabis in Canada, ending 80 years of prohibition in the country. Following Uruguay, Canada was the second country in the world to repeal its ban on cannabis.
So, it is very likely that that smelly smoke comes from someone within their legal rights to consume cannabis. But before you are tempted to use cannabis or its products, here is what you need to know.
Cannabis and cannabis products are still illegal in many countries outside of Canada. As CBC noted on the day of cannabis legalization in 2018, “pot possession is still illegal under U.S federal law.” This means you cannot travel across the U.S. border in possession of any cannabis or cannabis products, regardless of whether they are for recreational or medicinal use. Further, CBC also notes that a history of cannabis use “could mean that you are denied entry to the U.S.” These restrictions apply to the United States and any other country that still has anti-cannabis laws in place. In the case of international flights, it is best not to pack any cannabis. Before a trip home, make sure you know of any penalties for carrying or using cannabis in a different country.
Although laws vary on a provincial level, some federal guidelines remain consistent across the country. Recreational sales and possession are limited to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in other products (edibles, vapour cartridges, etc.). Recreational dispensaries cannot sell more than 30 grams to a customer per visit. Anyone possessing more than 30 grams could be charged for selling cannabis illegally. Another federal guideline allows households to grow up to four plants for personal use, except in Manitoba and Quebec, where it is prohibited.
Cannabis, like any intoxicating substance, should be approached with caution. It can be a social lubricant, but, as with alcohol and tobacco, overuse and abuse are dangerous. Cannabis is not for everybody. Just because it is legal doesn’t mean everyone must try or enjoy it, any more or less so than any other recreational drug. Legalization offers the opportunity for those interested in consuming cannabis for its medical or recreational purposes to do so without fear of legal repercussions.
If you are curious about using cannabis for medical or recreational purposes, visit your local regulatory body’s website for more information. Further, under Federal and Provincial law, all recreational dispensaries are required to have employees trained to answer any questions about cannabis, from legality to strength, as such, a cannabis dispensary in your neighbourhood might be able to answer your questions as well.
Visit the appropriate link below for information on cannabis legislation in your province or territory.
Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis
British Columbia Liquor Distribution Branch
Government of Manitoba Cannabis
Government of New Brunswick Cannabis
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Cannabis in the Northwest Territories
Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation
Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commision
Government of Ontario Cannabis
Government of Prince Edward Island Cannabis
Government of Quebec Cannabis Regulation Act
Government of Saskatchewan Cannabis
About Post Author
