Vancouver Approves Bylaws To Regulate Marijuana Dispensaries

On Wednesday, Vancouver became the first city in Canada that allowed to license and regulate medical marijuana retailers. According to CBC news, the city has about 100 retailers already present and look forward to have more. However, this decision was met with criticism from Health Minister Rona Ambrose.

The bylaw generated mixed reactions after extensive discussions that continued for four nights. It garnered support from the prominent Vision Vancouver councillors, Green Party Councillor Adriane Carr and Mayor Gregor Robertson whereas faced resistance from three Non-Partisan Association councillors of the city.

Councillor Kerry Jang argued that the bylaw could be used in controlling “the explosion of the medical marijuana shops” around the city. CBC news reported that according to the law, the retail dealers would be charged a high permit cost of AU$38732.17 for licence and would not be allowed to operate within 300 metres of schools, community centres and other marijuana shops.

As a result, more than a dozen would be ordered to shut down because they seem to have fallen within the limitations. Mr. Jang issued a statement saying, "We're not regulating the product, we're simply regulating the business itself.” However, selling of pot brownies with the exception of edible oils included in capsules and tinctures.

NEWS 1130 reported that Federal Health Minister Rona Ambrose expressed her disappointment over the bylaw by opposing it. She reported to have send letters to city councillors and the mayor calling it to be “illegal” and that it would increase consumption among the youth. In response, city councillor Geoff Meggs called her reaction “backward and destructive” and argued that this initiative would prevent the retailers from selling pots to children. Similarly, Mr. Jang accused her of “missing the point” when she said that it would lead to addiction.

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