British Columbia’s government has amended regulations to allow for cannabis consumption on public patios where vaping and tobacco smoke are authorized, “subject to local or Indigenous government bylaws and other rules.”
The province posted a bulletin about the changes online Wednesday, which also details how dispensaries can now recommend consumption locations. Usage within cannabis stores will remain banned.
“To support the legal cannabis industry in the province, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch is making gradual changes to improve hospitality and tourism opportunities for the cannabis industry,” reads the notice.
Jaclynn Pehota, Executive Director of the Retail Cannabis Council of BC, told Stratcann that her organization supports the move. “We believe that these changes are small but positive positive steps towards reducing stigma and supporting BC’s potential for cannabis tourism,” she said.
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Advocacy group applauds move
The executive director of the Alliance of Beverage Licensees, a cannabis advocacy organization headquartered in Vancouver, also applauded the move in an interview with the publication on the matter.
“Not only can businesses now promote places to consume cannabis, but the government has also aligned cannabis consumption rules with the rules for smoking or vaping tobacco,” the non-profit’s leader Jeff Guignard said. “Which just makes sense.”
He says it gives businesses much-needed flexibility to serve their cannabis-friendly customers.
A Campbell River media outlet described the development with a headline saying, “BC sets stage for Amsterdam-style cannabis coffee shops.”
Efforts are continually being made to relax cannabis regulations in the province. Late last month, the City of Surrey proposed allowing up to 12 dispensaries in the city following a 5-year ban. The move also received applause from many.
Cannabis consumption was permitted in designated areas at the Vancouver International Airport shortly after legalization in 2018.
rowan@mugglehead.com
