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Major changes to cannabis laws in Canada came into effect in 2018 with the introduction of Bill C-45, An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other Acts (the Cannabis Act).

The Cannabis Act legalizes access to and use of adult use/recreational cannabis. With the Cannabis Act in force, Canadian businesses that may be impacted need to be cognizant of the resulting legal implications.

The end of recreational cannabis prohibition has brought with it new opportunities for businesses, regulatory complexities, and at present, a degree of complexity as the federal and provincial governments have developed regimes governing the production, sale and distribution of recreational use cannabis (for example, the Ontario government passed Bill 36, the Cannabis Statute Law Amendment Act, 2018).

As one of Canada’s leading business law firms, we have deep expertise in the core areas of law impacted by the legalization of recreational cannabis. We understand not only the legislation, but the commercial, cultural and political dynamics at play. We will keep this page updated as key events unfold so check back regularly.

Anchored by our experience advising clients in highly regulated industries and our deep expertise in capital markets, M&A, venture capital and investment transactions, lawyers in Osler’s Cannabis Group advise licensed producers, investors, innovators and other industry participants on the full range of legal issues impacting this industry. Osler is ideally positioned to advise on the legal and regulatory framework that governs cannabis-related businesses.

Key Contacts

Rob Lando

New York Managing Partner, New York

Michael Watts

Partner, Corporate Commercial, Toronto

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