This week in Cannabis: Cannabis stores have to keep vapes out of sight in Ontario, the City of Toronto switches up their approach to illegal dispensaries, Ontario removes a legal loophole related to illegal dispensaries in the province, and Health Canada announces their new regulations for Oct. 17, 2019.
We’ve rounded up this week’s top stories from across Canada
The second wave of legalization will see three new classes of cannabis products become available to Canadians before the year is out.
In a teleconference with media outlets today, Health Canada unveiled their final plans to regulate cannabis edibles, extracts, and topicals. Coming into effect on October 17, 2019, the regulations provide a comprehensive set of rules that will govern the production and sale of those products.
Even though vaporizer devices are lauded as a healthier alternative to smoking, customers are not allowed to preview or handle them before a purchase.
The Smoke-Free Ontario Act initially targeted the display of e-cigarettes within retail stores, but due to its broad definition of “vaporizer”, the display of all cannabis devices are also included.
In a continued effort to thwart Toronto’s illicit cannabis economy, city agents have escalated their enforcement approach.
Last week, massive cement blocks were left in front of illegal dispensaries, effectively blocking street access and impacting the sellers’ ability to open up shop for the day. Footage later emerged of privately-hired machinery removing the blocks.
The Government of Ontario quietly passed amendments to the province’s cannabis law in response to a “loophole” which allowed illegal dispensaries to remain open if they claimed someone was living on property and using it as a residence.
Mandatory fines were also implemented, relating to landlords who rent to illegal dispensaries along with individuals who enter illegal dispensaries after they have been served a closure order.
With files from Jesse B. Staniforth and Harrison Jordan.
To Do List
Make Your Own Night: Tinctures and Topicals
CALGARY, AB: This workshop is a classroom-style presentation, teaching participants how to make their own tinctures and topical creams, using cannabis as a medicinal ingredient. On June 19, expect demonstrations and suggestions for any cannabis consumer and why “making your own” can be beneficial.
Learn To Grow Workshops
REGINA, SK: The Grow Room presents an hour-long introductory workshop on June 19, teaching beginner buds how to grow high-quality, pesticide-free cannabis in their homes. Leave the class with practical knowledge of Bill C-45’s regulations and how they relate to home-grown cannabis. Registration is $25.
World Cannabis Congress
SAINT JOHN, NB: Got what it takes to get into this exclusive invite-only event for cannabis industry leaders, influencers, and trendsetters? Keynote speakers include Martha Stewart and Bruce Linton of Canopy Growth, plus over 50 panelists from around the world. You must apply to attend the conference, happening this weekend.
