When Canada legalized, two provinces and one territory banned home growing: Manitoba, Quebec and Nunavut. Now, with a change in government in Manitoba (PCs went down in flames) it looks like growing will soon be allowed there.
See Stratcann article: Manitoba NDP table bill to repeal ban on growing cannabis at home
See Stratcann article: Manitoba NDP table bill to repeal ban on growing cannabis at home
"In an announcement in the House today, Matt Wiebe, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Manitoba, announced the provincial government would be lifting the province’s ban on people growing cannabis at home.
Bill 34, The Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Amendment Act, was tabled today. It proposed to repeal the province’s ban, allowing Manitobans to grow up to four plants per household, per federal regulations.
The Manitoba NDP, led by leader and now-premier Wab Kinew, formed a majority government in an election in October 2023, defeating the Progressive Conservative government in power since 2016.
“Manitoba will now align with federal legislation on cannabis by allowing people to grow up to four plants per residence,” said Wiebe in a press release. “This amendment is a direct response to Manitoba consumers and was one of our campaign promises. This bill will provide Manitobans the opportunity to grow their own cannabis as long as it is done in a safe and secure way. The regulatory framework will prioritize public safety, with a focus on protecting youth and ensuring cannabis plants are not accessible to young people.”
Then-Premier Brian Pallister said at the time that banning the home cultivation of cannabis would protect children and undermine the illicit market. Quebec and Manitoba were the only provinces to challenge that authority, banning home growing entirely, as did the Territory of Nunavut.
While Quebec’s rules implement fines for those found growing cannabis, Manitoba’s ban creates criminal penalties and a $2,542 fine for growing non-medical cannabis in a residence in Manitoba. . . . "
