Pubdate: Tue, 28 Mar 2017
Source: Calgary Sun, The (CN AB)
Copyright: 2017 The Calgary Sun
Contact: http://www.calgarysun.com/letter-to-editor
Website: http://www.calgarysun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/67
Author: Shawn Logan
Page: 7

ALBERTA IS STILL PLOTTING POT POLICY: NOTLEY

Alberta still hashing out pot policy as feds aim for 2018 marijuana
legalization

Alberta's NDP will await federal legislation and a public conversation
before rolling out its own policies around legalized pot, Premier
Rachel Notley said Monday.

With the feds reportedly set to announce legislation next month with
the aim of making marijuana legal by next Canada Day, Notley said
Alberta isn't rushing to put its own stamp on the policy before
setting eyes on it, or before asking Albertans to weigh in.

"We are concerned about ensuring the safety and health of young
Albertans and ensuring we don't kickstart another black market," she
said.

"We haven't landed on those key decisions yet because haven't
consulted with Albertans."

The new federal legislation reportedly sets the minimum age to
purchase legal weed at 18, though provinces will have the discretion
to set a higher limit.

Provinces will also be responsible for determining how legal marijuana
will be sold and distributed, as well as having the right to set its
price.

Notley said once the federal legislation is tabled, her party will
review it and consult with Albertans before cooking up a final plan.

It's a strategy that's gone largely unchanged by Alberta's ruling NDP,
who have consistently said they won't craft any policy around the drug
until they know exactly what parameters they'll be working within.

Asked if the province will advise its Crown prosecutors on whether it
will change how it prosecutes crimes in marijuana, Notley said those
decisions remain up to those in the justice system, not
politicians.

"At the end of the day, it will be up to the prosecution service what
laws they enforce or don't enforce," she said.
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MAP posted-by: Matt