Today, the Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba (LGA) released the results of its 2017 Manitoba Cannabis Survey.
The LGA conducted this anonymous survey in September 2017 to build a full picture of who is using cannabis now, how often and how much they use, and how this might look different after legalization. The LGA also asked Manitobans about their expectations for information and public safety.
According to the survey, 21.4% of adults in the province used cannabis in the past year, and another 21.1% say that they plan to try cannabis when it becomes legal. Manitobans want to see clear rules around driving, preventing underage purchase and use, and locations where use is allowed. They also want public education to address the health risks of cannabis for adults and youth, and to provide information about responsible consumption.
“As a regulator, ensuring public safety is always our priority,” explains LGA Executive Director and CEO Rick Josephson. “It’s critical that we get information to current and potential users to make sure they’re equipped to make responsible choices when trying cannabis.”
Understanding current and potential use will help the LGA create regulatory standards, retailer training and public education. Josephson added, “Manitobans expect us to establish a practical regulatory framework for retail sales that reduces risks of harm. Knowing their concerns and current practices helps us target our efforts.”
The LGA regularly conducts liquor and gambling research in the province. The LGA launched this survey earlier in 2017 in anticipation of its expanded mandate to regulate cannabis.
The 2017 Manitoba Cannabis Survey report and an infographic of key findings are available at LGAmanitoba.ca.