
The province has launched an online survey so that British Columbians can consider the possibility of allowing some companies to sell cannabis products to customers for on-site consumption.
Currently, anyone who buys legal cannabis in British Columbia must do so at a licensed retail store and then take the product off-site for consumption elsewhere.
But scanning It raises the possibility that one day people will be allowed to eat cannabis products in restaurants, lounges, and even special event venues such as designated areas at festivals.
“We’ve heard from cannabis companies that consumption spaces can provide an opportunity for the sector to become more economically viable and can better meet the interests of people who use cannabis,” Public Safety Secretary Mike Farnworth said in a statement.
Any future changes to regulations regarding cannabis consumption will still need to comply with provincial and municipal laws that apply to smoking or vaping, which means products consumed indoors will be limited to beverages, food and possibly topical creams.
The survey raises the possibility of cannabis products being legally sold and consumed in spas, golf courses and movie theaters.
Existing cannabis vendors have long been lobbying for the right to have lounges where people can use the products on site.
“At the same time, others have raised public health and safety concerns, which must be carefully evaluated. We want to hear the views of all British Columbians so they can help shape how the BC cannabis sector continues to develop,” said Farnworth.
The The online survey started on Wednesday It will be available through May 9 with a report on results expected sometime in the fall.