Federal Cannabis Rules Back in the Spotlight: Why Retailers Should Be Writing to MPs Now

A public e-petition calling for stricter federal cannabis rules to protect youth, is a reminder that Canada’s cannabis framework is still evolving. The cannabis license consultants at Thrive Advisors know all too well the many challenges cannabis retailers and producers have endured since legalization: competing with an online black market, the economic and social upset of the pandemic, and rising operating costs in an uncertain economy.

While petitions do not change the law on their own, they can influence public opinion and shape political priorities and formal government responses. Cannabis business stakeholders who remain silent risk that government decisions and policies begin to snowball and are then made with little industry consultation. Writing a letter to your MP early is a good place to start.

Why Write an MP About Your Concerns?

Periods of renewed scrutiny of the country’s relatively new cannabis legislation are inevitable and are when industry voices matter most. Cannabis retailers who engage early help protect not only their own businesses, but the long-term stability of the legal market.

• MPs rely on feedback from constituents when evaluating how proposed changes to federal cannabis rules will impact businesses and society at large
• Cannabis retailers and producers can explain how existing regulations already address youth access and public safety
• Business owners can describe the possible negative impacts of any proposed legislative changes on their operations
• Feedback helps counter emotional and/or unsupported narratives that overlook realities
• Early engagement can be more effective than reactionary action after the fact

What Should You Highlight in a Letter?

Letters should address the on-the-ground facts and realities of operating a cannabis business, highlighting current safeguards and the possible detriments of further legislative tightening.

• Existing age-verification and ID enforcement practices
• Strict advertising and packaging restrictions already in place
• Already stringent operating requirements and safeguards
• Economic contributions to local communities
• Employment opportunities and training provided by cannabis businesses
• The risks of regulations pushing consumers back to the illicit market

Retailers do not need to take a political position when writing a letter to an MP – their party affiliation and/or political leanings are not what matters. Clarifying concerns calmly and cogently will have more influence than finger pointing or focusing on government “failures”. When writing a letter, be respectful, factual and focused on how regulations work in practice with a goal of ensuring that already compliant businesses, which operate legally and responsibly under the law, are seen and heard.

Visit the Canadian House of Commons “Find Members of Parliament” page to locate an MP and view their contact information.

Connect with the Cannabis License Consultants at Thrive Advisors

Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors supports Canadian cannabis businesses from the start-up phase and throughout the life of their operation. Whether you require a cannabis license application, license updates, operational strategy or compliance checks, we make cannabis licensing easier than you think!