Nova Scotia Launches Cannabis Consultation

Cannabis will be legal in Canada by July 2018 and Nova Scotians are being asked to share their thoughts. An online survey was launched today, Oct. 6 and runs to Oct. 27.

The province is asking for input on key issues including the legal age to purchase and use recreational cannabis, where it can be purchased, and where it can be used.

“As the federal government moves toward legalizing cannabis, our top priority is to protect the health and safety of Nova Scotians,” said Justice Minister Mark Furey. “We want to hear from Nova Scotians as we develop a well-regulated legal market that encourages responsible use and minimizes organized crime.”

Within the federal legal framework, each province and territory is responsible for making decisions and creating rules and laws around the sale and use of recreational cannabis within its borders. While the federal legislation sets limits, such as minimum age or maximum possession limits, the prov¬inces and territories can add additional restrictions.

The online survey asks for feedback on the following:

• age 19 as the legal age of purchase and use
• the sale of cannabis through a Crown corporation like the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation
• where recreational cannabis can be used
• drug-impaired driving

For more information or to complete the survey visit www.novascotia.ca/cannabis. Copies of the survey will also be available at Access Nova Scotia Centres starting Oct. 12. They can be mailed in or dropped off at those locations once they have been completed.