Cannabis is Now Legal in Canada but Still Prohibited in SD43
As of October 17, 2018, Cannabis (marijuana) is legal in Canada through the Cannabis Act. Age 19 is the provincial minimum in BC to purchase, sell, or consume cannabis.
School District 43 has prepared for this and in short, SD43 prohibits, and will continue to prohibit, the possession, consumption, production, supply, sale, purchase or attempt to purchase cannabis by anyone in or on school property.
One of the Canadian government's
articulated top priorities is to protect the health and safety of youth. The Cannabis Act creates serious criminal penalties for those who sell or provide cannabis to youth. It also establishes new offences and strict penalties for those who use youth to commit a cannabis offence.
SD43 will continue to prohibit all cannabis related instances as supported by Federal and Provincial Act and Regulations, and violations will be dealt with as permitted by the School Act, District and School Codes of Conduct, and/or involvement with the police.
In addition to the regulations outlined above, the school district will continue to educate students on healthy lifestyle choices, the impacts of substances on the mind and body, and appropriate decision-making.
5 Things You Need to Know About Cannabis:
- It is still illegal for anyone under 19.
- It is still prohibited for everyone, in all forms, on all #SD43 property.
- It is still not okay to be impaired on school property.
- It can still cause damage to a developing brain.
- It is still a good idea to learn about health implications.
Read this letter to all parents/guardians and employees from SD43's Superintendent.
Review Administrative Procedure 466 Standards of Conduct for employees here.
Other Information Links
The Cannabis Act
The BC Government Cannabis Control and Licensing Act
Fraser Health Information on Cannabis
Partnership for Drug-Free Kids: What You Need to Know and How to Talk to Your Kids About Vaping
