The Government of Canada has proposed An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other Acts ("Cannabis Act"), which has passed first reading in the Senate (here). The Cannabis Act would provide a framework for restricted access to cannabis, and is intended to come into force no later than July 2018.
Health Canada has recently issued a Notice of Intent to develop regulations under the proposed Cannabis Act. "Among other things, the proposed regulatory framework aims to protect the health and safety of young persons and others by restricting promotions or enticements that could appeal to them, to provide Canadians with access to quality-controlled legal cannabis, and to reduce illegal cannabis-related activities." Health Canada launched a public consultation on November 21, 2017. Comments may be provided online until January 20, 2018.
The preceding is intended as a timely update on Canadian intellectual property and technology law. The content is informational only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. To obtain such advice, please communicate with our offices directly.
