Put down the Cheetos. Set aside the Pizza Pops and the Pop Tarts. We have some important news to depart.
The legalization of marijuana is coming in spring 2017 (and no, you’re not tripping).
Appropriately-named Health Minister Jane Philpott announced that federal legislation to decriminalize pot in Canada will be ready in a year’s time.
Speaking to the delegates on none other than 4/20, Philpott said, “We will introduce legislation in spring 2017 that ensures we keep marijuana out of the hands of children and profits out of the hands of criminals.”
As many gathered yesterday to smoke some weed in the sunshine in plain view of officials outside Parliament, the health minister announced in Ottawa that she believes that legalizing and regulating the drug is the best way to safeguard the youth of Canada.
“We know it is impossible to arrest our way out of this problem,” the health minister admitted, perhaps in reference to past failed, or ineffective, policies on drugs.
“While this plan challenges the status quo in many countries, we are convinced it is the best way to protect our youth, while enhancing public safety,” Philpott added.
The government certainly seems to be pioneering a modernized drug policy, one that aims to find compassion for those addicted while also fostering harm reduction. Back in March we told you that Toronto is the next city poised to set up safe injection sites for drug users so that individuals addicted to drugs can use clean, hygienic needles and be in the presence of trained medical staff should an overdose occur.
So how will this affect cannabis culture in Canada now that we’ll be free to get high outside the sanctuary of our living rooms?
Well, if Colorado is anything to go by, we could expect to see tourism boosted as marijuana lovers flock North to light up. The state also saw a reduction in crime and money from weed sales going back into the local economy.
One thing’s for sure: 4/20 next year is going to be a hoot and a half.
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