The federal government released their final report on legalizing and regulating marijuana use in Canada on Tuesday.
The Trudeau government is expected to legalize the use of marijuana in the spring and provincial and municipal regulations will be determined after that.
There are over 3,000 liquor stores in Alberta and one medical marijuana dispensary believes the province could easily see that many pot shops once federal legislation to legalize marijuana is passed.
Jeff Mooij with 420 Clinic in Calgary said, “wherever you see a liquor store you could see a dispensary, not necessarily in the same location, but the same number without a doubt.”
The federal commission that is studying how to legalize marijuana has recommended provincial and municipal governments participate in decisions around the retail distribution of legalized marijuana, which is something the Alberta government agrees with.
According to Alberta Justice Minister Kathleen Ganley, age must also be a consideration.
“I’m not particularly inclined to an age younger than 18. I think it’s important that we be having an eye to protect children in these instances.”
A number of laws will need to be defined, including on the roads.
READ MORE: Marijuana commission doesn’t set THC limits for people who smoke pot, then drive
Calgary Police Staff Sgt. Paul Stacey expressed concern there could be an increase in incidents of drug-impaired driving, especially considering police have already noticed a spike of crashes that involve drivers who are impaired through the use of drugs.
The commission is looking at the number of pot plants Canadians will be allowed to grow, and the risk to mental health.
READ MORE Canada’s pot laws must consider risks to mental health: expert
To read the full report by the federal commission, click here.
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