Executive Summary
The newly legalized use of cannabis in Calgary has sparked a flurry of analysis and debate surrounding the regulatory framework and practical implementation of the laws. This article aims to provide insightful suggestions based on a comprehensive examination of the current legislative instruments and their effectiveness in other cities. This paper will propose innovative policy ideas to improve the situation by discussing the various stakeholders impacted by the new laws and analyzing best and worst practices from other cities. The recommendations will be informed by extensive research and examples of successful practices from other cities. Key areas of focus include fiscal policy, public awareness, and legislative action, with the goal of ensuring optimal outcomes for all involved parties.
In terms of taxation, this paper is poised to recommend an increase in taxes on the sale of recreational cannabis while simultaneously introducing tax exemptions for its medicinal use. Public awareness campaigns should prioritize education on regulatory matters and the potential negative health consequences of using cannabis recreationally. Additionally, changes to existing laws are necessary to address concerns about public use and driving while under the influence. The practicality of these suggestions will be evaluated, and any possible adverse effects will be thoroughly discussed. This paper will provide a comprehensive overview of the new legislation and its implications for Calgary, as well as propose effective policy measures for implementing the new regulations.
Introduction
The crux of this piece revolves around the recent regulations that have authorized the commercial vending and leisurely consumption of cannabis in Calgary, Canada. Cannabis, a mind-altering opiate procured from the Cannabis plant, commonly referred to as marijuana or weed, has a rich history of employment for medicinal, divine, and recreational motives. Nevertheless, its utilization has been stringently proscribed due to the plausible jeopardy to the health and potential legal consequences. In contemporary times, there has been a sweeping global initiative towards the decriminalization of cannabis for both medicinal and leisurely objectives. In 2021, almost 40 nations have granted legal authorization for the therapeutic usage of cannabis, with 18 countries and numerous American localities having legitimized the non-medical employment of cannabis. The resultant effect is that the market for cannabis-based commodities is flourishing, with a projected estimation of the global lawful cannabis industry worth $21.5 billion in 2020 and forecasted to soar to $90.4 billion by 2026 (Doherty,2018).
Cannabis became legal for recreational use in Canada in October 2018 after the adoption of the Cannabis Act. Anyone over the age of 18 may possess, buy, and use cannabis under specified conditions under this regulation (Doherty, 2018). Since then, some Canadian communities, like Calgary, have enacted their cannabis sale and use restrictions. With a population of over 1.3 million, Calgary is the biggest city in Alberta, Canada (Doherty, 2018). The city’s economy is varied, with businesses like energy, banking, and technology fueling its expansion. Cannabis legalization has spawned a new economy in the city, with multiple cannabis merchants and manufacturers setting up the business.
Cannabis legalization in Calgary is a significant topic for various reasons. For starters, it constitutes a substantial change in drug policy, with implications for public health, safety, and social norms. Second, it opens up new economic prospects for entrepreneurs and investors while posing regulatory, tax, and market competitiveness issues. Lastly, it raises concerns about the government’s role in regulating drug usage, as well as the balance between personal freedom and public interest. This study seeks to give a critical overview of the problems surrounding cannabis legalization in Calgary from multiple perspectives (Hughes, 2018). It will identify the many stakeholders engaged in this problem, such as customers, retailers, producers, regulators, and community organizations, and examine how these changes are affecting them. It will also use research and best practices from other communities to generate policy suggestions that might help Calgary. This study seeks to add to the current discussion on cannabis legalization and its influence on society by doing so.
Literature Review
The Issue in General
The perplexing and contentious issue of cannabis legalization for recreational purposes has garnered global attention. Opposing views suggest that it may result in amplified consumption, addiction, and adverse health ramifications, while proponents argue that it could diminish crime, increase tax earnings, and aid medicinal patients. The legal framework surrounding cannabis has undergone swift transformations in recent times, with multiple countries and states authorizing its utilization for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Canada has notably taken the lead in this regard, as demonstrated by the Cannabis Act’s endorsement in 2018 (Hughes, 2018).
Relevant Description of Calgary
Calgary, the most populous city in the Canadian province of Alberta, boasts a heterogeneous economy, with robust sectors in energy, finance, and technology propelling its expansion. The legalization of cannabis in 2018 has spawned numerous retailers and producers of the plant in the city, ushering in fresh avenues for economic growth. However, this development has engendered anxieties about how to regulate, tax, and ensure public safety surrounding the cannabis industry.
Stakeholders and Their Needs
The multifaceted impact of cannabis legalization in Calgary has given rise to a plethora of stakeholders with intricate and diverse demands and interests. Among these stakeholders are cannabis consumers seeking affordable and secure product access, cannabis producers and retailers aspiring to an unbiased and equitable regulatory system, community groups striving to alleviate potential public health and safety harms, and government officials attempting to reconcile individual liberties with the common good (Hughes, 2018).
Government Bodies Responsible for Policy
The legal framework for cannabis in Canada is established by the federal government, with the onus of implementation and enforcement of regulations delegated to the individual provinces and territories. In the province of Alberta, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) functions as the regulatory body entrusted with the oversight of cannabis distribution and sale.
Existing Policy
The Cannabis Act and associated regulations serve as the policy foundation for the legalization of cannabis in Calgary. The possession, purchase, and use of cannabis are governed by these laws, as well as the licensing and oversight of cannabis growers and merchants. The AGLC has also set rules for cannabis sellers, including those regarding container specifications, product testing, and age verification.
However, there are concerns around the implementation and enforcement of these regulations, particularly around issues such as impaired driving, public consumption, and underage access. Some stakeholders have called for stricter regulations and enforcement mechanisms, while others have argued for a more laissez-faire approach to regulation.
Tools and Implementation of Cannabis Legalization in Calgary
The City of Calgary has made certain moves to guarantee thorough implementation in light of the legalization of recreational marijuana. Significantly, the city formed a Cannabis Task Group to provide recommendations on rules, set the legal age to purchase cannabis at 18, and imposed licensing requirements on cannabis stores (Murphy, 2018). The city’s enforcement plan prioritizes responsible consumption and adherence to applicable regulations by retailers. Furthermore, the city’s extensive regulations on where cannabis can be consumed and the requirement for each licensee to provide at least one non-smoking area exemplify the city’s prudent approach.
Best/Worst Practices from Other Places
Jurisdictions with the initial legalization of recreational cannabis provide several effective practices that can be replicated. These practices involve devising an all-inclusive regulatory framework by engaging diverse stakeholders, such as industry players and public health professionals, to guarantee the efficacy of the rules. In addition, enforcing the regulations with strict penalties for violators, educating the public on the advantages and pitfalls of consuming cannabis, ensuring the regulations’ accessibility with transparent language and precise instructions, and extending cannabis accessibility to individuals with medical needs are equally critical for successful implementation.
Oppositely, when evaluating the least effective measures from other regions, it becomes apparent that certain pitfalls must be evaded. These comprise an inadequate handling of youth access, excessively restrictive regulations on the cannabis industry, and an overzealous taxation scheme. Furthermore, ensuring enforceability of regulations while representing all stakeholders is equally vital.
Policy Recommendations
The regulatory oversight of recreational cannabis in Calgary is entrusted to a particular governmental entity known as the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) (Murphy, 2018). The AGLC assumes the primary responsibility for executing the Cannabis Act and its attendant provisions, which include licensing conditions, regulatory compliance monitoring, and revenue collection via taxation. As such, the following policy recommendations are proposed:
- Establish a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes youth access, taxation, enforcement, and public education provisions.
- Work with all stakeholders, including industry representatives and public health professionals, to ensure that the regulations are effective.
- Ensure that all regulations are enforced, with penalties for non-compliance.
- Educate the public about the risks and benefits of cannabis consumption.
- Provide access to cannabis for those with medical needs.
- Adopt best practices from other jurisdictions, such as establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework and working with all stakeholders.
- Avoid the worst practices from other jurisdictions, such as over-regulation of the cannabis industry and an overly restrictive approach to taxation.
Considering that the AGLC bears the mandate to oversee the regulation of recreational cannabis in Calgary and wields the authority to establish licensing conditions, enforce regulatory compliance, and facilitate public education regarding the advantages and disadvantages of cannabis use, it is both competent and authorized to implement these proposed policy recommendations.
Taxation
Of noteworthy import for the city of Calgary is the taxation scheme applicable to recreational cannabis. A steep taxation rate levied on the product could potentially translate to elevated market prices, thereby dampening consumer demand and concomitantly reducing revenue streams for the city. It is thus incumbent upon the city to deliberate on establishing an optimal tax rate that balances its fiscal goals with the promotion of competitive prices to entice buyers.
Public Awareness Campaigns
An additional salient factor to be taken into account is the need for public education and awareness regarding recreational cannabis. It is crucial to ensure that the general populace is well-informed about the potential advantages and drawbacks entailed in recreational cannabis use to facilitate responsible and regulated consumption. To this end, the city of Calgary may contemplate instigating a targeted public awareness campaign to enlighten citizens on the existing regulations governing the sale and consumption of recreational cannabis, as well as its associated risks and benefits, as opined by Murphy (2018).
Removing/Introducing Legislation
Furthermore, the city of Calgary could contemplate the option of either enacting or rescinding legislation pertinent to recreational cannabis. Such measures could encompass the elimination of limitations on the number of cannabis stores or the institution of regulatory guidelines governing the advertising of recreational cannabis products.
Feasibility of Recommendations
The feasibility of implementing these recommendations should also be considered. The city should consider the cost of launching public awareness campaigns, as well as the cost of introducing or removing legislation. In addition, the city should consider the need to fund additional enforcement and regulation of recreational cannabis.
Negative Implications
The multifaceted impact of recreational cannabis on Calgary’s society and economy remains uncertain. While it may generate substantial economic gains and promote social welfare, it could also trigger unforeseen negative consequences. Cannabis-related crimes and incidents of driving under its influence could rise, creating challenges for certain stakeholders. Hence, it is imperative for the city to proactively address and mitigate these concerns before they escalate.
Conclusion
To conclude, the legalization of cannabis sales and recreational consumption in Calgary has created a novel avenue of business and opportunity for entrepreneurs, businesses, and the city itself. Legal sales have already engendered an uptick in economic activity and private investment, with the potential for enduring success and growth. Additionally, these new laws showcase the city’s adaptability to shifting social norms, proffering consumers a secure and regulated substitute for purchasing cannabis. As legislation continues to progress and dispensaries proliferate, the effects of recreational cannabis sales and consumption on the city, its economy, and its culture are likely to be intriguing.
References
Doherty, B. (2018, October 16). The Definitive Guide to Recreational Cannabis Use in Calgary. thestar.com. Retrieved March 11, 2023, from https://www.thestar.com/news/cannabis/2018/10/16/the-definitive-guide-to-recreational-cannabis-use-in-calgary.html
Hughes, T. (2018, October 17). How to buy legal marijuana in Canada by mail or in person. cbs19.tv. Retrieved March 11, 2023, from https://www.cbs19.tv/article/news/nation-world/how-to-buy-legal-marijuana-in-canada-by-mail-or-in-person/507-605047961
Murphy, J. (2018, October 17). Cannabis in Canada: Who wins and who loses under New Law. BBC News. Retrieved March 11, 2023, from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-45674260
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