British Columbia First Nations and Marijuana

There are 198 First Nations in British Columbia. Each nation is contemplating the impact on their communities by the legalization of marijuana in July 2018, and each is deciding the best actions for them to take. Some nations are considering the potential business opportunities in the cannabis industry, and others have taken their first steps into next year's projected billion-dollar market.

British Columbia Cannabis Legislative Framework

TheBC government is currently working on cannabis regulations and legislation to implement prior to July 2018 when cannabis becomes legal across the country. The framework for this legislation is based on the following objectives:

• The legal age to purchase marijuana is 19. The legal drinking age in Manitoba is 18.
• The Liquor and Gaming Authority will be renamed the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority
• Selling marijuana to someone underage and to be underaged and in possession of marijuana will be an offence
• Selling without a license or selling from an unlicensed producer is a crime
• A medical license will be needed to grow plants at home
• 30 grams is the maximum allowed for possession
• Selling online will be allowed by stores with a physical storefront. The province must also grant a license.
• Online retailers must prove age of customer before purchasing. Deliveries must be signed by some 19 or older.
• Sales will be handled by private industry in the province. Distribution will be controlled in the public sector by The Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation.

Source: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2017PSSG0077-002017

Cannabis Opportunities for British Columbia First Nations

Penticton Indian Band

November 6, 201

Proposed Cultivation of Medical Marijuana

A non-binding letter of interest was signed by the band and Kaneh Bosm BioTechnology Inc., in 2014. The band was exploring options for growing medical marijuana on their reserve. Research was being done to estimate costs and assess the environment. Community members were also discussing the proposal. No updates have been given since that time.