Until now, simple possession of marijuana has been punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and six months in jail.

Goodale says the question of pardoning individuals with criminal records for possessing marijuana is legitimate and one the government will pursue once the law takes effect.

One New Democrat MP from Victoria has been quite frank about wanting to expunge the criminal records of those convicted under the old cannabis laws — and he intends to table a bill to achieve that as soon as the substance becomes legal on Oct. 17.