Statement on the Legalization of Cannabis/Marijuana for Recreational Use

Monday, June 25 2018


On 19 June 2018, the Senate passed Bill C-45, the Cannabis Act. On 21 June 2018, the Bill received Royal Assent, thereby legalizing marijuana for recreational use in Canada. Bill C-45, however, which also regulates how cannabis will be grown, distributed and sold in Canada, does not come into force until 17 October 2018. In response, the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has issued a “Statement on the Legalization of Cannabis/Marijuana for Recreational Use.” This statement comments on what the CCCB worries will be the effects of using and promoting the use of marijuana for recreational purposes, reiterating the information and insights already expressed in its prior “Statement on Canada’s Opioid Crisis and Drug Addiction“, as well as highlighting the important evidence-based concerns raised by a number of community professionals and the Holy See.

Link to the statement (PDF)