Dear Constituents:
I hope the snow-flakes of this winter are bringing times of joy with family, friends and loved ones as we get closer to holiday celebrations—Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid-Milad-Ul-Nabi and many more. I am pleased to mention that I was able to introduce a motion in the legislature to declare the first week of February as the UN Interfaith Harmony Week in Alberta. I would like to acknowledge the contributions of the Calgary Interfaith Council that led this to happen.
Based on the recent inquiries we have been receiving I would like to share some information on cannabis framework:
When the federal government introduced legislation to legalize cannabis across the country, it left many decisions about adapting to the federal legislation to provinces and territories. We turned to Albertans to hear their views on legalization. During our two-month engagement process, we heard from more than 45,000 Albertans. More than 100 organizations attended stakeholder meetings or provided written submissions. We also studied lessons from other jurisdictions that have already legalized cannabis. The system reflects the values of Albertans, and is founded on four policy priorities, which Albertans told us they overwhelmingly support:
- Keeping cannabis out of the hands of children;
- Protecting public health;
- Promoting safety on roads and in workplaces; and
- Limiting the illegal market for cannabis.
Proposed Minimum Age is 18: It aligns with the minimum age for alcohol and tobacco.
Consumption Location: some public places but not in vehicles, on hospital grounds and in areas where tobacco smoking is restricted.
Once the federal legislation passes, cannabis will be legal across the country by July 2018. Except for medical purposes, cannabis continues to be illegal in Alberta.
Mark the Date: Christmas/Holiday Party
When: December 08, 2017 from 5 pm to 7 pm
Where: Constituency Office
RSVP: Email/ Phone Call
