The provincial government won’t allow vapour lounges and compassion clubs to be exempt from rules that restrict medical cannabis use anywhere cigarettes are banned.
The government’s Bill 178 will amend the Smoke Free Ontario Act to include medical cannabis along with tobacco.
Proposed amendments to the Bill from Conservative opposition MPP Randy Hillier would have allowed vapour lounges and compassion clubs to bypass the restrictions.
Hillier said, without changes, the current Bill is written “over the top,” preventing medical from medication anywhere besides private homes and is an over-reaction to the misconception in the public that any exceptions would allow medical cannabis users would be allowed to smoke in public wherever they like.
All the proposed amendments were defeated at committee of by the four Liberal members.
“I think they’re sensible and reasonable amendments and would make for a more practical [law] … and recognize there are people who require marijuana to alleviate their pain and suffering,” he said.
Bill 178 is expected to be brought to a final vote before MPPs leave for the summer, June 9.