In Canada, cannabis was regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, SC 1996, c 19 and more specifically, given a legal exemption for medical use. On October 17, 2018, cannabis was legalized under the Cannabis Act, SC 2018, c 16.
As Canada nears the likely legalization of marijuana for recreational use, a host of issues will impact on users for medical purposes. Presently, the possession, distribution and production of marijuana is illegal. An exception to this applies to medicinal use. Long-term medical, legal, and business effects of marijuana legalization remain clouded. Introduction of recreational marijuana legislation is expected in spring 2017. Until then, Canada holds its breath.
