Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota believes legislation to legalize the use of marijuana in Canada is very close and could become a reality by the spring.
“The biggest thing with Marijuana is to make sure we get it right and make sure we have it dispensed in places where children can’t get to - making sure that it’s only adults that can get to it and people of age,” stated Rota about the issue at a North Bay transit funding announcement in downtown North Bay on Monday.
Rota’s comments go in line with Justice Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, who has said back in January that the Liberal government is determined to bring forward legislation to legalize and regulate the recreational use of pot by the spring of 2017.
“There are some medical benefits to marijuana and I think it will come forward and work very well for those who need it most,” stated Rota.
“I think it will be a benefit overall.”
The legislation is big news around the world as Canada is about to become the first major western country to fully legalize the drug.
Marijuana, which has been legalized in states like Colorado, has had an economic impact of $2.4 billion for that state’s legal cannabis industry in 2015.
“It comes down to how do we regulate it, how do we regulate the distribution, and influencing the use of it that it’s not abused and it’s something people can use as they please,” he said.
