FREDERICTON, N.B. – The provincial government provided an update on its preparations in advance of the federal government legalizing adult-use cannabis on Oct. 17.
Finance Minister Cathy Rogers said government is ready for the federal government’s legalization of adult-use cannabis.
“Our legislative framework has been proclaimed, our retail environment will be ready and our education and awareness campaigns are in market. We will enter this new legalized environment in a responsible manner while ensuring we can take advantage of the full range of economic opportunity this new industry provides.”
As of Oct. 17, New Brunswickers 19 and older will be able to legally buy up to 30 grams of cannabis from a Cannabis NB retail store, have up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent in their possession when outside their home, and grow up to four plants at their primary residence. When grown indoors, these plants must be in a separate, locked space. When grown outdoors, they must be located behind a locked enclosure that is 1.52 metres high.
There will be no restrictions on how much cannabis can be kept at home.
“Your government has prioritized public health and safety concerns as we move towards the legalization of adult-use cannabis,” said Health Minister Benoît Bourque. “Our legislative framework has strong regulations for the distribution and sale of cannabis to help ensure that we are protecting the health of New Brunswickers, especially vulnerable populations.”
After Oct. 17, it will still be illegal for anyone under the age of 19 to:
– buy or try to buy cannabis;
– possess or consume cannabis;
– buy or try to buy cannabis accessories; and/or
– enter or attempt to enter a Cannabis NB store.
It will continue to be against the law to:
– consume adult-use cannabis in a public place;
– consume cannabis in or on any motor vehicle while it is in operation; and/or
– distribute cannabis to a minor.
The only legal place to purchase cannabis will be through Cannabis NB.
People who violate the Cannabis Control Act could be ticketed and fines will escalate for repeat offenders. People under the age of 19 can be fined or prosecuted if they are caught with cannabis. The cannabis will be seized, their parents or guardians may be notified, and they will be fined in same manner as is the case for underage possession of alcohol.
The federal government’s Cannabis Act will take effect on Oct. 17. Until then, it is still against the law to possess, consume, cultivate or sell adult-use cannabis in New Brunswick.
Information is available online at gnb.ca/cannabis.
