Finance officials in Manitoba, Canada are calling on cannabis industry operators to help develop regulations for the provincial market including “competitive pricing” and who should sell and distribute cannabis products, the CBC reports. The request comes as the nation plans to federally legalize adult cannabis sales on July 1, 2018.
“Manitoba intends to develop a local, broad-based, adaptable and ongoing framework for the implementation of legalized recreational cannabis,” Manitoba Finance officials wrote in an expression-of-interest document. “Key measures of success for the framework include restricting access to minors, competitive pricing, quality product, variety and knowledge, limits on density and locations of storefronts, accessibility for all Manitobans.”
Last week, Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister led a call to delay implementation of the Liberal proposal to avoid a “hodge-podge” of rules throughout the nation.
The move was praised by advocate Steven Stairs, who said the officials are “alluding toward the idea of having a system that’s going to make money for the province but also beneficial” for customers and retailers.
The Liquor and Gaming authority has also indicated the agency intends to survey public opinion about cannabis regulation. Manitoba Finance wants potential retailers and producers to submit their proposal to the province by Sept. 8.