News: Manitoba Moves to Legalize Homegrown Cannabis.
Published 10:00 AM EST, Weds January 15, 2025
The provincial government is seeking public input on a proposed amendment to cannabis regulations that would allow people to legally grow plants at home as soon as April. While federal guidelines allow up to four marijuana plants to be grown at a residence at one time, Manitoba and Quebec were the only provinces to ban the practice provincially.
The provincial government in Manitoba is proposing an amendment to cannabis regulations that would allow residents to legally grow up to four cannabis plants at home, aligning with federal guidelines. This change would overturn a previous provincial ban, bringing Manitoba in line with most other provinces in Canada. The proposed amendment includes restrictions such as indoor cultivation and keeping plants away from minors.
The Retail Cannabis Council of Manitoba supports the amendment, emphasizing the need for public education on home-growing regulations. They believe this change will reduce the stigma around cannabis and potentially boost sales through the introduction of cannabis seeds in retail stores. Some retailers, however, believe the government should prioritize cracking down on the illegal grey market rather than focusing on home cultivation.
The provincial government is seeking public input on the proposed amendment for 30 days. Some cannabis advocates have expressed concerns about the inconsistency between allowing home cultivation while still prohibiting public consumption. Landlords will also have the discretion to prohibit cannabis cultivation on their properties.
This proposed change reflects the evolving landscape of cannabis legalization in Canada. While federal law allows home cultivation, provincial regulations have varied. This move by Manitoba signifies a shift towards a more permissive approach to home growing, potentially impacting the cannabis industry through increased consumer access and potential shifts in consumer behavior.
Source: Winnipeg Free Press
