Perhaps because of the statutory holidays this past weekend you may have missed a statement issued by Health Minister of Canada Jane Philpott.
“Following a careful review of the Federal Court’s decision in the matter of Allard v. Canada, the Government of Canada has decided not to appeal the decision. In the coming months, the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR) will be amended to give effect to the Court’s judgement. The Government’s intention is to have completed the amendment process by August 24, 2016, which is the timeframe set by the judgement.”
Does this mean Canadians may legally “light up” come September? Not likely. But it is a clear message that amending the current MMPR will not be delayed either and that we will see a substantial increase of medical use of marijuana in the near future. Although the statement also reminded those authorized to obtain marijuana for medical use to do so only through currently licensed suppliers, it’s still unclear how increased regulation may affect natural food, grocery and pharmaceutical retailers.
Philpott’s statement continued to outline some next steps.
“At the same time, our government will be moving forward with the legalization, strict regulation and restriction of access to marijuana. In the near future, a Task Force will be established that will consult broadly with experts in public health, substance abuse and law enforcement in order to examine and report on all of the issues related to legalization.”
