Manitoba’s Historic Shift: Wab Kinew’s Election Sparks Hope for Cannabis Reforms
In a landmark event on October 3 in Manitoba, Wab Kinew from the New Democrat Party was elected, making him one of Canada’s first Indigenous premiers. A descendant of the Onigaming First Nations and representing Fort Rouge, Kinew will succeed Heather Stefanson of the Progressive Conservative Party, Manitoba’s premier since November 2, 2021, and its first female head of state.
While Manitoba has taken progressive steps in representation with its initial female premier and now an Indigenous one, there’s a consensus among cannabis industry professionals, activists, and political leaders that there’s a significant void in cannabis laws.
The election of Kinew has created a stir in the cannabis community. They anticipate transformative adjustments in the near future. Kinew, in the past, has been critical of the Progressive Conservative government’s approach to federal cannabis policies and the province’s stringent regulations on recreational cannabis.
On Cannabis Regulations: Back in 2019, Kinew expressed no intent to modify retailer-focused cannabis laws. However, he hinted at potential modifications to Manitoba’s public consumption rules.
“We might reconsider the ban in provincial parks. Let’s face it, people are already consuming cannabis in these areas,” Kinew commented.
He also indicated that the topic of public consumption might be re-evaluated, as well as the hefty provincial taxes on cannabis products, suggesting a potential revision of the preset rates.
The Strict Regulations of Manitoba: Manitobans are prohibited from consuming cannabis in public places, with violators facing a $672 fine. This applies even in city parks or 6 meters from a building entrance. Additionally, the federal law’s provision allowing the growth of four cannabis plants for personal use is forbidden in Manitoba, with a hefty penalty of $2,542.
Optimism in the Cannabis Industry: Steven Stairs, Chairperson for the Cannabis Business Association of Manitoba, is upbeat about the governmental shift and its prospective implications on cannabis statutes. He reached out to Kinew, showing support for their forthcoming endeavors.
Stairs said, “The NDP has always been supportive in our endeavors to end the Social Responsibility Fee (SRF). We believe they’ll be an integral ally in the government. The cannabis sector still needs legislative changes.”
Adrienne Guillou, representing Flint & Embers Cannabis Co, a cannabis store based on indigenous land, expressed her team’s joy at the advancement of indigenous rights following Kinew’s victory.
Guillou voiced her agreement with the NPD’s cannabis policies, saying, “The victory is twofold for us. We believe people should be allowed to cultivate four cannabis plants at their residences. The ban on personal cannabis cultivation in Manitoba might finally see some changes.”
She emphasized the significance of Indigenous leadership and its ripple effect in various sectors, including cannabis.
Melanie Bekevich, of Mistik Cannabis Co. and Peace Pipe Cannabis Co., shared her positive anticipation. “Being an Indigenous-owned store, we’re elated about Wab Kinew’s historic election. The NDP has been very supportive of the industry, especially smaller entities. With them in power, we anticipate a cannabis portfolio review, ensuring fairness for smaller retailers. We’re eager to see the changes under Premier Wab Kinew.
