As Canada moved towards legalizing recreational cannabis on October 17, 2018, the U.S. Mission to Canada issued important reminders for travelers. Despite Canada’s shift, cannabis remains a controlled substance under United States federal law. This legal dichotomy poses significant implications for travelers and those working in Canada’s legal cannabis industry. For example, a Canadian citizen involved in the legal cannabis sector in Canada but traveling to the U.S. for unrelated reasons is generally admissible. However, if their travel to the U.S. is connected to the cannabis industry, they may face inadmissibility issues.
In Washington State, marijuana legalization occurred in 2012 for adults aged 21 and over. This change led to the opening of several marijuana retail outlets in Vancouver. The law distinctly applies only to adults; those under 21 can still face charges for Minor in Possession. Washington State’s laws include specific regulations like an age limit of 21 for purchasing and possessing cannabis, and set purchase limits for various forms of cannabis.
Clark County has established zoning regulations for marijuana facilities under Clark County Code (CCC) 40.260.115. These regulations permit marijuana production, retail, and processing only in certain zones, with specific size and zoning requirements for production facilities.
The 2018 Cannabis Act in Canada had a specific impact on youth, allowing those aged 12-17 years to possess up to 5 grams of dried cannabis for personal consumption/sharing. A study explored whether this Act influenced police-reported cannabis offences among youth in CanadaPMID: 34085338.
Additionally, the implications of cannabis legalization on health have been diverse. In the U.S., states with medical marijuana legalization witnessed an increase in cardiac mortality rates, yet a decrease in opioid prescriptions. Interestingly, these states also saw an increase in tobacco salesHealth Implications.
For those seeking information on medical cannabis and approved stores, resources are availableMedically Endorsed Approved Stores. Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of park rules in Clark County, especially regarding the use of recreational marijuana in public spacesPark Rules and FAQs.
In summary, the legalization of cannabis in Canada and parts of the U.S. like Washington State has led to a complex landscape of laws and regulations. These range from federal inadmissibility issues to local zoning laws, impacting various aspects of society and health.
