MCA UPDATE ON CANNABIS LICENSING
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) recently passed the Akwesasne Interim Cannabis Regulation (MCR 2018 #212), which will govern the possession, use, cultivation, sale, and distribution of cannabis in Akwesasne when it comes into force on October 17th, 2018. The regulation includes the requirement for cannabis-related businesses to obtain a license from the MCA.
The Akwesasne Interim Cannabis Regulation can be found online at http://www.akwesasne.ca/mca-passes-interim-cannabis-regulations/ The interim regulation was enacted to reassure community members that their health and safety is the top priority of the MCA as we near the date of legalization and to ensure an orderly transition from cannabis prohibition to a regulated cannabis market in Akwesasne. At present, the cultivation, possession, distribution, or sale of cannabis remains strictly prohibited. Beginning on October 17th, the unlicensed commercial production, distribution, possession or sale of cannabis will continue to be prohibited in Akwesasne. The provisions of the Akwesasne Interim Cannabis Regulation will be enforced and violations can lead to prosecution under applicable legislation.
The MCA recognizes that the legalization of cannabis brings significant economic opportunities for entrepreneurs and for the community as a whole. The Akwesasne Interim Cannabis Regulation allows community members to apply to the MCA for an interim cannabis licence for the business ventures. As we approach the date of legalization, the MCA is completing work on the processes and procedures for the issuance of interim licences. Section 7 of the regulation provides an outline of the basic application and approval process. Please take note that each applicant must submit a business plan which includes a detailed description of the proposed operations of the business for which an application is submitted (section 7.3) as well as a non-refundable application fee of $2,000 which must be paid at the time of submission.
The MCA will provide a notice to the community when it is prepared to receive cannabis-related business applications. Any questions can be directed to the Mohawk Government Office at 613-575-2348 or by emailing info@akwesasne.ca.