Today, the Liquor, Gaming & Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA) launched the Can & Can’t of Cannabis campaign. The campaign provides Manitobans with information about the new laws in Manitoba that will come into effect on October 17, 2018, when cannabis is legalized across the country.
“The legalization of cannabis is a significant challenge for the Manitoba government,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen. “In addition to keeping cannabis out of the hands of our kids and away from the black market, it is our job to make sure Manitobans are prepared with the information they need to make responsible choices.”
The LGCA will regulate retail cannabis stores in Manitoba to ensure that cannabis is purchased, distributed and sold in a manner that is in the public interest. In addition to licensing and compliance responsibilities, the LGCA is also mandated to develop and support social responsibility initiatives and programs to build public knowledge and promote strategies for safer cannabis use.
“Public education is key for public safety,” said Elizabeth Stephenson, chief administrative officer of the LGCA. “Campaigns like this will help us get factual information to Manitobans aged 19 and older who may choose to use this product legally.”
The LGCA conducted an anonymous survey of 1,200 Manitobans in 2017, which revealed that Manitobans want clear information about how cannabis can be used legally. The Can & Can’t of Cannabis campaign provides direct statements about Manitoba’s coming cannabis laws. Messages throughout the province will provide information such as “You can’t smoke or vape cannabis in public” and “You must be 19+ years old to buy or consume cannabis in Manitoba.”
The LGCA will launch a second campaign shortly before legalization, outlining responsible use strategies.
For more information, visit LGCAmb.ca.
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