Nova Scotia bill would raise fines and expand enforcement for illegal cannabis

A proposed Nova Scotia law would increase fines and allow peace officers to enforce cannabis rules alongside police; legal experts and a former justice minister say the bill lacks detail on training and could disproportionately affect Indigenous communities.

Nova Scotia tabled a bill to strengthen enforcement of cannabis rules by raising fines and expanding who can enforce them. The proposal would allow peace officers such as constables and conservation officers to act alongside police. Justice Minister Scott Armstrong said the changes are needed to deter illegal dispensaries and protect public health. Critics including a law professor and a former justice minister say the measure lacks detail on how new enforcement officers would be prepared and warn about possible effects on Indigenous communities. Key points: - The bill would introduce minimum and maximum fines for cannabis offences, with lower-offence minimums of $250 to $500 and higher-offence ranges proposed at $15,000 to $50,000, compared with current fines that start as low as $150 and top out at $25,000. - Enforcement powers would be expanded to include peace officers such as constables and conservation officers in addition to police. - The proposed law would allow fines of $5,000 to $25,000 for landlords who knowingly permit unregulated dispensaries on their property. - The province issued a directive in December asking police to prioritize stopping illegal cannabis and the justice minister sent a letter to 13 Mi'kmaq chiefs seeking co-operation, a move that drew criticism from some Indigenous leaders and legal experts. - The Nova Scotia Liquor Corp. currently controls retail cannabis through 51 outlets, while several Mi'kmaq sellers assert treaty or Indigenous rights to sell cannabis; the province amended regulations in April to allow partnerships with Mi'kmaq communities but officials said no agreements had been signed as of the bill's tabling. Summary: Supporters say the changes aim to deter illegal dispensaries and protect consumers by increasing penalties and broadening enforcement. Critics warn the bill could reduce judicial discretion on fines and have a disproportionate effect on Indigenous communities during ongoing legal and public debate over rights on reserve. Undetermined at this time.