Things have certainly changed in the recent months here in Canada; with one of the most argued over subjects being the legalization of cannabis. For any cannabis enthusiast, it’s pretty exciting to have this going on; however, there are many things you’ll need to know to keep yourself safe and out of trouble, by the law or concerning your health.
There are many issues concerning the use of cannabis, such as, a general overall safety check making sure you are in a safe and legal place to consume, or alternatively; making sure you know the source for which you receive your supply. We live in a world where cannabis for the longest time was controlled by members of organized crime. With the government now taking control, it ensures safer product and they have money to invest; with $46 million dollars being put aside for research, to inform Canadians of all the health and safety risks.
At the end of the day, if we all legitimize our purchases and buy from government-approved merchants, we will be putting money back into our country, rather in the hands of criminals.
With these changes being as fresh as the buds we smoke, it’s important to know all the facts and make sure you’re obeying the laws set forth by the Canadian government. It’s also important to note that the laws do vary, based on the province you live in. So if you travel around, it’s best to be aware of all the differences, to ensure you stay out of trouble.
What Candians are able to do now that cannabis has been legalized:
- Possess up to 30 grams of cannabis purchased by a legal vendor.
- Share up to 30 grams with people above the age of 18 or 19.
- Buy marijuana and cannabis-related products from a provincially-licensed merchant, or online, depending on your province.
- Grow licensed seeds, up to four plants per residence, for personal use only.
- Make cannabis products such as edibles and drinks. Not allowed if you choose to use organic solvents.
Keep in mind this does change from province-to-province, with Manitoba and Quebec refusing to let citizens grow the four plants federally allowed for personal use. That being said, it’s fair to let each province decide in the way it is distributed.
Furthermore, legalizing cannabis also will lower the crime rate nationwide. For example, in 2017, there were approximately 48,000 cannabis-related offences. I’m sure criminals will find new ways to be criminals; however, there will be a lower burden on our court system, not having to prosecute simple possession charges.
There will also be penalties if you break laws implemented by the government; so it is critical you know the up-to-date changes. Below are the laws and the penalties you will face; if broken.
Laws and Penalties:
- If you possess over the legal amount of 30 grams, you could be serving up to 5 years in jail (based on the amount being carried).
- If you illegally distribute or sell cannabis or cannabis-related products, you could receive a ticket for a small penalty or up to 14 years in jail.
- Producing over the legal amount of cannabis or using combustible solvents, could grant you 14 years in jail, based on the amount.
- Taking cannabis across the Canadian border grants a penalty of up to 14 years in jail.
- If you sell cannabis to a person under the age of 18 you will serve a penalty up to 14 years in jail.
- Lastly, if you use a youth for a cannabis-related crime, you will serve up to 14 years also.
Furthermore, if you drive under the influence of cannabis or cannabis-related products, you could also be charged with a DUI. The recommended time to wait, until ok to drive is usually 4 hours since consumption of cannabis via inhalation (not edibles!). There have also been reported problems with the accuracy and reliability of the machines in Canada’s cold weather, so do ensure the cannabis has cleared your system completely before stepping into your vehicle.
Additionally, please keep in mind that marijuana and related products should be considered as medicine and should be used with caution. As per all the safety warnings, do not operate any heavy machinery while under the influence of cannabis, as it increases the chance of accidents.
There are many different types of cannabis products and the 30-gram limit is only based on dried cannabis.
One gram of dried cannabis is equal to:
- 5 grams of fresh cannabis
- 15 grams of edible products
- 70 grams of liquid product
- 0.25 grams of concentrate
- 1 plant seed
Furthermore, the new laws that have been set in place are designed to keep you safe and aware; as well as, to keep the profits of cannabis, out of the hands of criminals. Check back with the Government of Canada’s website every now and then, to ensure you are complying with the new regulations.
Also, remember not to light up and smoke in public, as this is one of the regulations that have been set in place by the government. It’s best to stay out of trouble, so you can keep on toking and enjoy the new freedoms granted. Also, keep in mind, if you’re visiting Alberta; it’s the only province allowing the use of marijuana by people aged 18 years old.
Victory for Canadians
It’s a victory every day that cannabis is legal in our country and there is going to be much less stigma behind using it, which is a breath of fresh air.
In the end, all we can do is inform you of what it takes to be safe and we will update you if anything changes. Don’t take this new found freedom for granted, as we are lucky for this moment in our history as a country. These rules and regulations are designed to keep you safe, not limit what you can do. Find a trusty source today, preferably a provincially-licensed vendor or online retailer.
One further caveat, if you plan on travelling down to our southern neighbour, be sure to answer, “no”, if they ask you whether you have ever smoked marijuana. Many Canadians have been issued lifetime travel bans when they replied truthfully. Also, of further concern is the fact that American Border Officials already have potential access to all Canadian credit card files. The Canadian Online Cannabis Stores only take credit cards as forms of payment at this time; sparking massive privacy concerns from thousands of concerned Canadians.
Our#1 choice for ordering cannabis online remains:
If you’re looking for more information on the laws and regulations of the use or possession of cannabis visit the site below.
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-medication/cannabis/laws-regulations.html
