Pubdate: Tue, 28 Mar 2017
Source: Metro (Halifax, CN NS)
Copyright: 2017 Metro Canada
Contact:  http://www.metronews.ca/Halifax
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4727
Author: Ben Macintosh
Page: A1

HIGH ON THE IDEA

Legalization

But advocate hopes province finds innovative ways to sell weed

A recreational pot supporter in Halifax is applauding the expected
announcement by the federal government that recreational marijuana
could be legal by July 1, 2018.

Chris Henderson, general manager of Halifax's High Life Social Club,
said he hopes the impending move will encourage more people to be open
about their pot usage.

"Younger people are more open about their usage, you don't hear about
the older generations and cannabis," he said in an interview on
Monday. "I hope this encourages older people."

The announcement comes after the Liberals promised during their
election campaign to have legislation to legalize marijuana in place
by the spring of 2017.

The federal government will set the minimum age at 18 and will license
producers. Provinces will control sales and age restrictions.

"When the provinces are the ones who set the age it creates
differences, and it makes pot less inclusive," said Henderson.

He said he hopes Nova Scotia will be the leader in innovative ways for
retailers to sell legalized marijuana in Canada.

"It shouldn't be sold in liquor stores. If businesses like mine can
sell it, it creates more customers and a new revenue stream," he said.

Henderson said police have been more relaxed with marijuana usage
among adults.
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MAP posted-by: Matt