Ontario to Introduce New Bill in Preparation for Upcoming Legalization of Cannabis

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As you may already know, if it is approved by Parliament, the Cannabis Act (or Bill C-45) could become law with a target date of no later than July 2018, legalizing recreational cannabis across Canada. This fall, the provincial government of Ontario plans to introduce a new bill in preparation for Bill C-45.
The upcoming provincial bill will regulate the use of cannabis to, among other things:

  • make it illegal for people under the age of 19 to buy, sell, have, share and grow cannabis.
  • propose that the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) oversee the sale and distribution of recreational cannabis.
  • propose regulations restricting use: individuals would only be permitted to use recreational cannabis in a private residence, would not be allowed to use cannabis in public, workplaces and motorized vehicles.
  • implement new measures to address drug-impaired driving.
  • develop an integrated prevention and harm reduction strategy to address and prevent substance abuse for young people.
    launch a public information campaign to raise awareness about Bill C-45.

Bird Richard will keep you informed of the introduction of the new provincial bill and how it may affect your workplace.