QPL Articles

Alberta Releases Draft Legislation Governing New Cannabis Framework

By | November 16, 2017

On Thursday afternoon, the Alberta Government released its proposed draft legislation to implement its previously announced cannabis framework.  This follows a period of public consultation and will enter its first reading into the Legislature in the upcoming session.  Bill 26, titled “An Act to Control and Regulate Cannabis”, amends existing legislation governing liquor and gaming.  As such, the Gaming and Liquor Act will be repealed and substituted by The Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act.  The new legislation implements much of the previously announced cannabis framework and further addresses the distribution and sale of cannabis in both retail and on-line point of sale.

Together with Bill 26, the Alberta Government also introduced on November 14th, 2017 Bill 29, titled “An Act to Reduce Cannabis and Alcohol Impaired Driving” which sets out strict limits and offenses related to impaired driving.

Quarry Park Law looks forward to reviewing these proposed laws in detail, so as to provide our clients with a robust understanding of the changing cannabis landscape within Alberta.

Bill 26 Highlights include:

  • Minimum age: The minimum age for cannabis will be aligned with Alberta’s legal drinking and smoking age of 18 years old.
  • Safeguards for sales: AGLC will manage wholesale and distribution.  Licensed growers will be strictly regulated by the federal government.
  • Buying cannabis: Privately run cannabis stores will sell cannabis and accessories under strict regulation.  Government will operate online sales.
  • Consuming cannabis: Smoking and vaping cannabis will be restricted in areas frequented by kids, and in other public places where smoking is prohibited.
  • Growing cannabis: Albertans can grow up to 4 plants per household inside.
  • Possessing cannabis: Adults can posses up to 30 grams of legally produced cannabis in public.  Those under 18 cannot possess, purchase or use cannabis.
  • Drug-impaired driving:  Cannabis consumption will not be allowed in vehicles.  Penalties will be the same as alcohol-impaired driving.
  • Impairment in workplaces:  Alberta is reviewing all existing regulations and programs to ensure rules continue to address impairment risk.
  • Advertising and packaging: Federal restrictions to be placed on advertising and promotion of cannabis, particularly to minors.  Alberta can strengthen these if needed.

See more at: alberta.ca/

Bill 26

Bill 29

 

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