Marijuana legalization has been a hot topic in many countries worldwide, with Canada becoming the second country in the world to legalize recreational cannabis in 2018. The new legislation brought about numerous changes, including the regulation of cannabis production, possession, and consumption. While it has been a topic of debate for many years, the legalization of marijuana has caused many misconceptions, and it is essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding it. In this article, we will explore the marijuana legalization laws in Canada, what it entails, and how it affects Canadians.
The Legalization of Marijuana in Canada
Canada legalized cannabis on October 17, 2018. The legalization was a historic moment and marked the end of years of prohibition. The Cannabis Act governs the production, distribution, sale, and possession of cannabis in Canada. It allows adults who are 18 years and older to possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in public places. The act also permits adults to grow up to four cannabis plants per household, provided that the plants are not more than one meter tall.
The Purpose of Legalizing Marijuana in Canada
The legalization of marijuana in Canada aimed to accomplish several objectives. Firstly, it aimed to reduce the black market trade of cannabis and associated criminal activities. Secondly, the legalization aimed to provide a safer and regulated environment for the sale and consumption of cannabis. Additionally, the legalization aimed to restrict access to cannabis by minors and individuals who are at high risk of mental health issues. Lastly, the legalization aimed to improve public health and safety by controlling and regulating the quality and potency of cannabis sold in the market.
Marijuana Possession and Consumption Laws in Canada
The Cannabis Act governs the possession, distribution, sale, and consumption of cannabis in Canada. Adults who are 18 years and older are allowed to purchase, carry and share up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in public places. The act also allows adults to grow up to four cannabis plants per household for personal use. However, it is illegal to sell any cannabis grown at home.
Consumption of Marijuana in Public
In Canada, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public places. Public places include sidewalks, streets, parks, schools, and other places accessible to the public. It is also illegal to consume cannabis in vehicles, including bicycles and boats. Violators of this law face a fine of up to $200.
Marijuana and Driving
The legalization of marijuana has raised concerns about impaired driving. In Canada, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle or other machinery while impaired by cannabis. The legal blood drug concentration limit for THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, is 2 nanograms per milliliter of blood. Drivers caught violating this law face severe penalties, including license suspension, fines, imprisonment, and increased insurance premiums.
Marijuana and the Workplace
The legalization of marijuana in Canada has raised concerns about its impact on the workplace. Under the Cannabis Act, employers have the right to establish their own policies regarding cannabis use at the workplace. Some employers have prohibited the use of cannabis entirely, while others have established clear guidelines on when and where it can be consumed. Additionally, employers have the right to conduct drug tests on employees to ensure that they are not impaired while working.
Safety Sensitive Jobs and Marijuana Use
Safety-sensitive jobs, including pilots, bus drivers, and heavy machinery operators, require employees to be alert and focused. The use of cannabis during work hours or before reporting to work can impair an employee’s ability to perform their duties safely. As such, employers in safety-sensitive industries have banned the use of cannabis entirely. Employees caught violating this rule may face disciplinary action, including termination of employment.
Marijuana Legalization and Canada’s Economy
The legalization of marijuana has had a significant impact on Canada’s economy. Before legalization, cannabis was an underground market dominated by criminal organizations. The legalization of cannabis has shifted the market to a legal and regulated industry. In 2019, the legal cannabis industry generated over $2 billion in sales, creating jobs and boosting the economy. Additionally, the legalization of cannabis has brought about tax revenue for the government, with projected tax revenues for 2020-2021 to be around $440 million.
Challenges Facing the Legalization of Marijuana in Canada
While the legalization of cannabis has brought about numerous benefits, it has also brought about several challenges. One major challenge facing the legalization of cannabis is the black market trade. Despite its legalization, many Canadians still prefer to purchase cannabis from illegal sources. Additionally, the legalization of cannabis has raised concerns about its impact on public health, particularly on minors and individuals with mental health issues.
Conclusion
The legalization of marijuana in Canada has brought about numerous changes, including the regulation of cannabis production, possession, and consumption. While it has been a topic of debate for many years, the legalization of marijuana has caused many misconceptions, and it is essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding it. In Canada, adults who are 18 years and older are allowed to purchase, carry and share up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent in public places. However, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public places, and individuals caught violating this law face a fine of up to $200. The legalization of cannabis has had a significant impact on Canada’s economy, generating tax revenues and creating jobs. Despite its many benefits, the legalization of cannabis has also brought about several challenges, including the black market trade and its impact on public health.
