Cannabis Legalization

On February 10, 2020, the government announced a consultation on the potential implementation of additional cannabis business opportunities in the future, including:

1. facilitating the sale of cannabis for consumption in establishments like lounges and cafes (cannabis consumption establishments); and,
2. cannabis special occasion permits (SOPs).

The government’s news release stated they would be meeting with “key groups, including industry representatives, public health and safety organizations, education stakeholders and Indigenous representatives, to ensure their expertise and advice help to inform next steps.” 

OPSBA responded to the consultation on March 10, 2020.

Bill 36, Cannabis Statute Law Amendment Act, 2018

This bill was introduced by Attorney General Caroline Mulroney on September 27, 2018 and received Royal Assent on the federal legalization day of October 17, 2018. The Cannabis Statute Law Amendment Act allowed private retail stores to be open for business by April 1, 2019. Municipalities had until January 22, 2019, to opt out of having stores in their communities. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) will be the registrar for licences. A 15-day public consultation period for communities to weigh in on the location of stores was mandated as well, but the final decision rests with the AGCO. 

OPSBA Submission re: Bill 36, Cannabis Statue Law Amendment Act, 2018

For more information, including where cannabis may be used, visit the Government of Ontario’s Cannabis Legalization website.